Her Campus CareerA Collegiette's Guide to Lifehttp://www.hercampus.com/
How She Got There: Megan Berry, Head of Social Product and Community at RebelMousehttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-megan-berry-head-social-product-and-community-rebelmouse
<p><strong>Name:</strong> Megan Berry<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Head of Social Product and Community at RebelMouse<br /><strong>College/Major:</strong> Stanford University/Political Science<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="https://www.rebelmouse.com">www.rebelmouse.com</a><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://twitter.com/meganberry">@meganberry</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rebelmouse.com"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/HSGT-Megan-Berry.jpg?itok=5Q2uI0gs" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?</strong></p>
<p>I run social product here at RebelMouse, and I’ve been here since we started around three years ago. What it means to run social product is, basically I’m looking at our product roadmap to decide which of the features we think are going to help our clients grow and maximize their content.</p>
<p>That involves planning out the features on the highest level, working with design teams and engineering teams to decide how they’re specifically going to look, working with some of the logistics of timing and client needs and working with tech leads to decide who’s going to build it. It’s about getting that whole pipeline in place and then looking back once something has launched and understanding how it did and what that means for our clients.</p>
<p>In terms of a typical day, I usually wake up on the early side (around 7 am) and get on the computer in my PJs to check in with our global team. There are people finishing up their day in India and people in Europe who are at their lunch break, so I need to chime in where I’m needed. Once that’s settled, I get dressed and get into the office. That’s a nice time to catch up on product docs and get myself set up for long-term projects. As the day moves on, I’ll jump into client meetings and then I’ll probably head back to help teams of designers and engineers in other time zones.</p>
<p>I’m a huge fan of exercise, so after work, I’ll do a Soul Cycle class, eat, then check back in with our teams.</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p>There are a couple different things in particular. One is that we have a really amazing team. When someone on the team has an idea and a designer pulls together something that’s even better than what we dreamed of, or when a design goes into engineering and they have a great suggestion, that collaboration is amazing.</p>
<p>The second thing is when something goes live. For example, we’ve been working on this feature for a long time called “The River,” which is like a Facebook newsfeed for the communities we build, and when it went live and we got featured in some press, it was really exciting.</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p>One thing is that this industry is risk-friendly, so it’s better to take the chance or take the lead if you think something might work. Just go for it and really put yourself out there, because it’s an industry that really responds to that. When you take risks and just go for it, you tend to be rewarded and see things happen.</p>
<p>I think with that, on a personal level, I had a tendency in interviews and then on the job to be overly modest. I look back, and even when I interview college students to see if I want them on my team, I just see it so clearly. It’s a switch that you have to flip when you leave school that a teacher won’t be your advocate; you have to be your own advocate.</p>
<p><strong>What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p>I look at a couple things. First I want to know if someone is a self-starter and a go-getter. The way I’ll notice that is how much he or she has looked into the company and me overall. If you were taking extra time to do your research and read our press and check my Twitter account, that makes me think you’re going to put effort into the job.</p>
<p>The other thing is someone who’s generally really curious and really excited about the industry. When someone tells me that this is <em>the</em> thing [he or she] wants, that gets me excited. When people are unsure of what they want, it’s not as exciting to hire.</p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-megan-berry-head-social-product-and-community-rebelmouseMon, 02 Mar 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman8 (Non-Sketchy) Ways to Sell Your Stuffhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/money/8-non-sketchy-ways-sell-your-stuff
<p>You know that old sweater you used to love? The one that still looks great, but just isn’t <em>you </em>anymore? You could let it sit in the back of your closet gathering dust, or you could give it (and your budget) a new life by selling it to someone else!</p>
<p>Let’s face it — whether living in a cramped dorm room, in a modest apartment or at home with your folks, most collegiettes have a thing or two they’d like to purge, and they’d also like to <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/7-ways-make-extra-cash-1-week">make some money doing it</a>. But selling your things can be frustrating. Online venues like craigslist are popular but sometimes sketchy, and you probably aren’t selling enough items to host a full-blown garage sale. That’s why we’re here to fill you in on some other ways to sell your things, as recommended by deal-seeking collegiettes like you!</p>
<p><strong>Consignment stores</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mccord/61910944/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/11/05/61910944_efed8be1a9_b_1.jpg?itok=4H1mmehP" /></a></p>
<p>One great way to sell your things is to look up consignment stores (businesses that buy and sell secondhand clothing and other items) in your area. Becoming a seller at most consignment stores is pretty simple: Bring all the items you’d like sell to the store in person, and then an employee will look through your items and decide which pieces the store will purchase and for how much. It’s important to get a feel for the kind of items each consignment store generally buys and sells, otherwise you might leave with handfuls of unwanted stuff and empty pockets.</p>
<p><u>1. Plato’s Closet</u></p>
<p>With locations in the United States and Canada, <a href="http://www.platoscloset.com/">Plato’s Closet</a><strong> </strong>is a popular choice among collegiettes who want to sell their pre-loved clothing and accessories.</p>
<p>Alyssa Opdyke, a junior at Fordham University, recommends Plato’s Closet but warns that the store can be picky. “Clothes … have to be super trendy usually, or they won't even take them,” Alyssa says. “But you can get decent money if you have good stuff.”</p>
<p>Specifically, Plato’s Closet asks for <a href="http://www.platoscloset.com/what-we-buy">current</a>, name-brand fashion pieces that have been gently used, so don’t bother taking a blouse here that you’ve been hoarding for the past few years. If you think your closet has what it takes, then give it a shot! You could walk away with some quick cash.</p>
<p><u>2. Buffalo Exchange</u></p>
<p>Take your gently used current and vintage styles to <a href="http://www.buffaloexchange.com/">Buffalo Exchange</a>, another consignment store that works a lot like Plato’s Closet. Buffalo Exchange takes retro styles, not just the latest fashions like Plato’s Closet does, but they do ask for quality clothing and accessories in great shape. They also ask that you <a href="http://www.buffaloexchange.com/how">call your local store</a> ahead of time to see what they’re looking to buy. Although Buffalo Exchange can be a bit picky as well, you can make a great sale if you know what the store is looking for. Plus, Buffalo Exchange donates five cents to a charity of the customer’s choice for every bag refused by the customer, so you can become part of a worthy cause.</p>
<p>Hannah Rupp, thrifter and fashion blogger at <a href="http://www.anoldstoryblog.com/">An Old Story</a>, a secondhand-style blog, says that ideally she sells at consignment stores like Plato’s Closet and Buffalo Exchange as well as independent local sellers before heading online.</p>
<p>“You get to talk to a real person, know where your stuff is going, and, in most cases, you get payout on the spot,” Rupp says. “It’s a great option for someone who doesn’t have time to wait around on the Internet!”</p>
<p><u>3. Half Price Books</u></p>
<p>Don’t think that consignment stores only buy clothing and accessories. Some stores, like <a href="http://www.hpb.com/">Half Price Books</a>, buy pre-loved books, movies, music and other tech. Selling to Half Price Books works just like selling to other consignment stores: Show up at a store with your items, and the staff will make you a cash offer depending on the condition of and demand for the stuff you’re trying to sell. Plus, they donate thousands of books to nonprofits each year!</p>
<p><strong>Websites and apps</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/56415830@N06/8466400627/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="443" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/11/05/8466400627_aa0f0d2c87_b.jpg?itok=0Sc-_inh" /></a></p>
<p>You’re always hearing about craigslist and eBay, but there are so many more websites and apps dedicated to helping you sell your secondhand treasures. These venues make selling convenient (you can do it from home!) and virtually hassle-free.</p>
<p><u>4. Poshmark</u></p>
<p><a href="https://poshmark.com/">Poshmark</a><strong> </strong>is a fabulous virtual alternative to a traditional consignment store if you’re looking to sell gently used clothing, shoes and accessories. This app, available for free for <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/poshmark-buy-sell-fashion/id470412147?mt=8">Apple</a> and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.poshmark.app&amp;hl=en">Android</a> phones, lets you create an account, post items you’d like to sell and engage with buyers. </p>
<p>Although the app takes 20 percent commission from any sale of $15 or more and a flat fee of $2.95 from smaller sales, Poshmark sends you a prepaid shipping label whenever you sell an item, taking a lot of pain out of the shipping process.</p>
<p>Lindsay Wallman, a senior at The College of New Jersey, swears by Poshmark. “[It] is an awesome app that is 100 percent trustworthy and is perfect for selling your extra clothes, shoes and accessories,” she says. “I have had a great deal of success with it and have even found some awesome items for myself!”</p>
<p>Melissa Tierney, fashion blogger at <a href="http://missyonmadison.com/">MissyOnMadison.com</a> and deal-seeker, says that she particularly likes Poshmark for its unique interactive features.</p>
<p>“Rather than eBay, where you are just buying and selling items, Poshmark has 'parties' daily that have specially curated style picks from users 'closets' based on the theme of that party,” Tierney says. “For example, a month ago I was asked to host a 'Fall Forward' party on the app, so I went around for two hours and shared fall pieces from my closet as well as fellow Poshers’, and usually that leads to sales because those pieces grab users’ attention!”</p>
<p>With its easy-to-use interface and fashionable community, it’s not hard to see how selling for Poshmark can feel like a fun game!</p>
<p><u>5. Twice</u></p>
<p>Twice is another website and app where you can sell your pre-loved clothes and accessories. <a href="https://www.liketwice.com/">Twice</a><strong> </strong>works like a long-distance consignment store: You send all the clothes you want to sell to them, and they give you an offer for the entire package, which you can choose to accept or reject.</p>
<p>But get this — Twice <a href="https://www.liketwice.com/sell/">covers the shipping </a>for you in one of two ways. You can print out your prepaid shipping label (think Poshmark), or you can request a free selling kit that will arrive at your address in under a week complete with a prepaid shipping label. Plus, if your package gets lost in transit, it’s insured for up to $100.</p>
<p>After you ship your package, Twice will make you an offer within the one week. Then, you can choose regular payment (check, <a href="https://www.paypal.com/home">PayPal</a> or <a href="https://venmo.com/">Venmo</a>) or store credit. If you reject the offer, you owe Twice $4.95 to cover shipping your package back.</p>
<p>Rupp has had some serious success with Twice. “[It was] easy to use, paid for shipping both ways (and included a free mailing bag for my clothes!) and only took about two to four weeks to get a payout,” she says.</p>
<p>Twice is looking for stain-free, current items (less than five years old) from <a href="https://www.liketwice.com/what-we-buy/">top brands</a>. Send over clothes from brands like Gap, American Eagle and J.Crew, but don’t bother with anything from Forever 21 or H&amp;M. If you have top-notch clothes in great condition, <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/style/catwalk-campus/make-money-and-buy-clothes-budget-twice">Twice is perfect fit for you</a>.</p>
<p><u>6. Gazelle</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gazelle.com/">Gazelle</a> buys used smartphones, tablets, iPods, computers and more. The site gives you a free offer taking into account the type of device and its condition. For example, an iPhone 5 in good condition (with no significant cracks but not brand new) <a href="https://www.gazelle.com/iphone/iphone-5/at-t/iphone-5-32gb-at-t/495190-gpid#page_2">can earn you around $150</a><strong> </strong>depending on its storage capacity and carrier.</p>
<p>Unlike Poshmark, Gazelle sellers don’t directly interact with their customers. An online community isn’t right for everyone, so if you’re looking for just a quick sale, Gazelle could be the venue for you.</p>
<p>“It is easy, gives you a fair price and allows you not to have to interact directly with a buyer like eBay or craigslist does,” says Kathryn Balben, a first-year at the University of Virginia who has had success selling her MacBook and iPhone with Gazelle.</p>
<p>Gazelle also covers shipping for items valued at over $1 and <a href="https://helpcenter.gazelle.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/171/kw/How%20fast">pays out</a> relatively quickly after the team inspects your gadget: from three to five business days for an online payment through PayPal or up to 10 business days for a mailed check.</p>
<p><strong>Social media</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/chaparral/528049015/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="401" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/11/05/528049015_3fe20799ea_o.jpg?itok=B3Kpa_-d" /></a></p>
<p>When you’re thinking of selling your things, don’t take for granted the community you interact with every day. If you’ve got a decent online following already, then you might not need to look any further than your favorite social networking sites.</p>
<p><u>7. Facebook</u></p>
<p>If you’re active on Facebook, you probably belong to a few groups. These can be great tools for selling, especially groups for college students. Universities often have “Free and for Sale” or “Exchange” Facebook groups where you can buy and sell items from your classmates. This is a super convenient way to sell all kinds of things because you can easily meet up with your buyer on campus and you’re typically not limited to what you can sell.</p>
<p>But what if you college doesn’t have “Free and for Sale” group? No worries — you can always post on a common interest group (think clubs and organizations) or even your class group (for example, “Vanderbilt Class of 2015”).</p>
<p>Many collegiettes recommend selling on Facebook pages, including Georgia College junior Emily Ward. “[On Georgia College’s page] people post pictures and usually have really great luck,” Emily says. “You can buy anything from a rug to Lilly Pulitzer shorts to a taxidermy animal!”</p>
<p>This is an especially great option if you’re selling concert tickets, textbooks or anything else you know your peers will love.</p>
<p><u>8. Instagram</u></p>
<p>If you don’t want to limit your customer base to just university students, you might want to try selling on Instagram. Post a picture and description of what you’d like to sell on your Instagram account and collect payments via PayPal. You can find <a href="http://www.cinsarah.com/2014/02/tips-on-starting-instagram-shop.html">more detailed instructions here</a>.</p>
<p>If you use Instagram to sell items, be cautious. Make sure that you secure your payment before shipping your items, and don’t agree to meet anyone outside of a public space.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/pigstubs/2258126876/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="418" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/11/05/2258126876_c847e46668_b.jpg?itok=bD2AQLaf" /></a></p>
<p>Social media, shopping apps and consignment stores have made it easier than ever to make some fast cash off of your used items. The options listed above are just a few of the many fantastic ways you can sell your things, so don’t settle for craigslist and eBay just because they get the most hype!</p>
<p>What could be better than getting rid of the clutter and making money doing it? Dust off that old sweater (or iPod, or textbook) and start selling! And, hey, odds are you’ll find <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/style/how-save-money-500-top-online-stores">a bargain purchase</a><strong> </strong>or two along the way. </p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/8-non-sketchy-ways-sell-your-stuffMon, 02 Mar 2015 00:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKathryn Williams5 Ways to Stand Out to a Job Recruiterhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-ways-stand-out-job-recruiter
<p>By now, you probably know the drill: search for jobs, submit a cover letter and resume and ace the interview. But for many collegiettes, the job search will involve recruiters, whose job it is to seek <em>you </em>out. Recruiters come from companies and organizations and will visit college campuses to find students they might like to hire. Sound scary? Maybe a little. That’s why we talked to Louis Gaglini, associate director of employer relations at the Boston College Career Center, about the top ways you can stand out to a job recruiter!</p>
<p>Why go through a job recruiter, you ask? If a particular company comes to your school, you can assume that they’re looking for students just like you, Gaglini says. So if you’re interested in working or interning for a particular company that is known for recruiting, check out the following tips to make an amazing impression!</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="323" id="media_crop_7764270873740" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2013/12/01/856982_94046466_2.jpg?itok=gbr50aZg" /></p>
<p><strong>1. Find out when events are happening—then actually go to them</strong></p>
<p>If you have a company in mind that you’d love to work or intern for, see if and when they’re coming to your school or city. “Your career center will be in a position to help you find [those events],” Gaglini says. “Talk to professors and fellow students, too.” Some other good places to look? Your school’s daily announcements email, your career center’s website or online system and the websites of the companies you’re interested in.</p>
<p>Don’t have a company in mind? That’s okay, too! Set up an appointment with a career counselor or peruse your career center’s online system to look for companies that pique your interest that are coming to campus. While the prospect of going to these events can be scary, sometimes it’s not enough to just submit a cover letter and resume to a company. Going to the events will set you ahead of other less proactive candidates. “Make sure the recruiters know who you are,” Gaglini says. “You’re taking [your relationship with the company] from paper and email and meeting people live.”</p>
<p><strong>2. Look the part</strong></p>
<p>Need an excuse to buy new heels and a power suit? Here’s your chance. “Make sure you understand what the requirements are for your attire,” Gaglini says. “Find out if [the event’s dress code is] casual, business casual or business attire. Come as expected.”</p>
<p>When deciding what to wear, take into account the nature of the event. According to Gaglini, the recruiting events on campus could be anything from a networking night to a company presentation to a more social event. You might not need the pantsuit for the social event, and your school sweatshirt’s not going to cut it at a networking night. Check out <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/what-wear-your-summer-internship-what-definitely-not-wear">these tips</a><strong> </strong>for dressing professionally, no matter what industry you’re interested in! When in doubt, you can always ask an adviser at your career center what he or she would recommend.</p>
<p>“I don’t think you can go wrong with a simple black pencil skirt,” says Vanessa, a junior at Johns Hopkins University. “But I always check with my roommate first before going to events where companies will be represented. A second opinion always helps!”</p>
<p><strong>3. Nail the first impression</strong></p>
<p>It can be scary to arrive at a networking event—what should you do first? Have a goal before you even walk in the door. “Set an objective, like maybe meeting three people. Maybe meet the person to whom you sent your resume if she will be there,” Gaglini says.</p>
<p>A good starting goal? Be visible. Make sure the company knows who you are so you won’t be a faceless job application in the middle of a stack of papers! Depending on the event, there may be several representatives present from the same company. If this is the case, talk to as many as possible. You want to get your name and face out there.</p>
<p>Once you’re face to face with someone you want to connect with, make a great impression. “Shake hands and say, ‘I came to the event to meet you, I submitted you my resume and I look forward to talking to you again,’” Gaglini suggests.</p>
<p>Other great ways to get noticed? Ask a lot of questions to the people you’re shaking hands with. What do they like about the company? Why did they decide to work there? The best advice, though, according to Gaglini, is maybe the easiest to do: just look happy to be there! “Don’t let them ever think you’re not excited to be there. Let them know you’re thrilled to be there,” he says.</p>
<p>Beyond asking questions and giving a great handshake, think about your body language. “I think nodding a lot and making good eye contact is crucial for making sure employers know you’re actually listening,” says Kathleen, a junior at Johns Hopkins University. Want more tips on body language in a work setting? Check out <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/career-body-language-8-nonverbal-ways-shine-workplace">this article</a> for tips!</p>
<p><strong>4. Perfect your 30-second “commercial” </strong></p>
<p>Commercial, <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-perfect-your-elevator-pitch-get-internship">elevator pitch</a>—whatever you call it, the face-to-face interactions at recruiting events are crucial because they let you showcase your personality better than any cover letter could!</p>
<p>“Sometimes you may have only 20 seconds,” Gaglini says. “Introduce yourself: your name, major, what you’re interested in and if appropriate, maybe ask for a follow-up, like, ‘Would you mind if I sent you my resume? Or if we met up?’”</p>
<p>The best thing you can do is practice, Gaglini says. Practice in front of your mirror, to your roommate or to your career counselor—go over possible scenarios and what you would say. “You have to piece it together for [the recruiter] and say why you need to develop a relationship with them,” he says.</p>
<p>How would you be valuable to the company? What would you get out of an internship or job with them? Keep it short, but pique their interest! Confidence is key, which is why Gaglini recommends you practice as much as possible.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" id="media_crop_3401510280091" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2013/10/31/1377963_30321632_0.jpg?itok=BUHyiGGj" /></p>
<p><strong>5. Follow up</strong></p>
<p>At the end of the pitch, ask the recruiter if you can <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-follow-after-networking-event">follow up</a>, like if you can send your resume to him or her or have another conversation. This will show you’re interested and proactive! If appropriate, bring a few copies of your resume to the event. Ask your career center if the event is conducive to handing out copies beforehand, though.</p>
<p>“Once you’ve connected with someone, now it’s your time to stand out without pestering or bothering them,” Gaglini says. “You’re keeping that connection alive by asking them if you can set up some time.”</p>
<p>At a minimum, send an email to the recruiter thanking him or her for their time. Feel free to ask some follow-up questions if you have them. Handwritten thank-you notes also make a big impression. “Employers love thank you notes, whether it’s after a short encounter at a career fair, or after an interview with them,” says Devon, a senior at Bryant University. “It proves your appreciation for the company and shows your desire to work for them!”</p>
<p>Of course, there’s a fine line between being assertive and annoying. If you say you’re going to follow up with an email, do that and then back off for a little bit. “Sometimes you just have to be cognizant and self-aware. This takes practice,” Gaglini says. “You have to know if you’re pushing too much. Your career center can assist you. Ask your career center, ‘Do you think it’s pushy if I do this?’ Your career center will be straight with you.”</p>
<p>While every situation is different, an example of being pushy could be emailing the recruiter several times a week if they’re not replying back. If you ever have doubt whether or not your contact with the recruiter is becoming too much, talk to your career counselor. Every case (and company) is different.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While meeting with recruiters can sound intimidating, with a little practice and confidence, you’ll be connecting with companies and getting top jobs in no time! </p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-ways-stand-out-job-recruiterSun, 01 Mar 2015 14:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKatie NaymonShould You Join a Professional Association?http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/should-you-join-professional-association
<p>As busy collegiettes, sometimes the stress of networking, endlessly searching for jobs and internships, and learning about how to succeed in a chosen career path can be enough to make our heads spin. One way to make the process easier? Joining a professional association. In almost every field, there are at least one or two (or sometimes several!) different professional associations that unite people working or pursuing careers in that industry. The catch? Many also charge yearly membership fees, which can be especially intimidating to your average college student on a budget. Do the benefits outweigh the cost? We talked to several collegiettes on their experiences as members of professional associations, and got them to weigh in on whether or not it’s worth it.</p>
<p><strong>What benefits do professional associations offer?</strong></p>
<p><u>Practical career experience outside your major</u></p>
<p><a href="http://pixgood.com/good-student-in-class.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="408" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/progrma3.jpg?itok=0V3eYMOK" /></a></p>
<p>Especially if your major doesn’t necessarily correspond to the field you’re looking to have a career in, joining a professional organization is a great way to meet other students that you might not meet in your classes and get involved in your industry outside of class.</p>
<p>Danielle Jackson, a senior at the University of Georgia, says her experience as a member of her campus’s chapter of PRSSA has allowed her to learn about pursuing a career in public relations in ways her English major might not have allowed her to.</p>
<p>“I'm a member of PRSSA at the University of Georgia and I think it's definitely worth it,” Danielle says. “I'm an English major, which means I obviously don't take the same classes as the PR students, so I try and learn as much as I can from my experience in PRSSA.”</p>
<p>Lesley Mitler, founder of <a href="http://prioritycandidates.com">Priority Candidates</a>, a career coaching service for college students, agrees that professional associations are a great way to explore career fields that you might not have direct exposure to through your major.</p>
<p>“Depending on your major and how committed you are to pursuing a certain field, professional associations can be helpful,” Mitler says. “They can also add to your knowledge and understanding of fields that you have had little exposure to but might be interested in learning about.”</p>
<p>Obviously the classes you’re taking for your major are important, but joining a professional association allows you to tailor what you’re learning in class to your specific career field.</p>
<p><u>Workshops and conferences</u></p>
<p><a href="https://tcucareerservices.wordpress.com/2013/01/31/2013-senior-career-conference-recap/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/img_3724.jpg?itok=I2-sGx6e" /></a></p>
<p>Most professional organizations offer yearly national conferences and workshops that bring in exciting guest speakers and allow local chapters to come together and network. While you don’t always have to be a member to attend, organizations like the <a href="http://www.abwa.org/pages/home-page">American Business Women’s Association</a> offer discounted registration fees to members who pay the <a href="http://www.abwa.org/pages/membership">$90 annual membership fee</a>.</p>
<p>Even if you don’t make it to the national conferences, many local professional association chapters bring guest speakers to campus meetings.</p>
<p>“At my school we have meetings twice a month, and we've had informational panels featuring people from top PR firms as well as professionals who have done PR for some really popular companies,” Danielle says.</p>
<p>The best people to give you advice about how to succeed in your chosen career field are those who have been there, done that—and the guest speaker opportunities that professional associations can provide are a great way to make connections with people who may be helpful later on down the road!</p>
<p><u>Networking opportunities</u></p>
<p><a href="http://app.emaze.com/@AOIZWIOI/netiquette_02027#4"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="465" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/27-iStock_000005622581Medium.jpg?itok=6Jgc18Z4" /></a></p>
<p>Every collegiette knows that one of the scariest parts of the career search process is networking—and for collegiettes who are easily intimidated by making new connections, joining a professional organization can make a world of difference. Organizations like <a href="http://www.nywici.org">New York Women in Communications</a><strong> </strong>offer frequent networking events and a members-only online directory—kind of like the association’s own private LinkedIn! What’s more, as you develop a bond with the other students in your organization, you will not only have great friendships, but also an amazing network of contacts in your industry.</p>
<p>With all these networking opportunities, it’s likely you’ll be able to have access to potential jobs and internships that you might not have through your school’s career center.</p>
<p>“It's a really great experience for people looking to network and get exclusive information about job and internship opportunities that they won't always find at their school's career center,” Danielle says.</p>
<p>As the saying goes, it’s often not <em>what</em> you know, but <em>who</em> you know, and professional associations can be a great tool for the networking-nervous!</p>
<p><u>Meet people with similar career interests</u></p>
<p><a href="http://www.india.com/topic/Socialisation.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="330" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/make-new-friends.jpg?itok=u6YLQx0m" /></a></p>
<p>Even with all the other obvious perks of joining a professional association, one of the best reasons to join is simply to get involved with other students who have similar career interests! Collegiette Brianna Susnak, a freshman at Indiana University, says one of the best parts of being involved with a professional association is being able to meet other students interested in pursuing a career in her chosen industry.</p>
<p>“I'm part of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, which is a professional association at my school that promotes diversity in the media,” Brianna says. “I have found being a part of a professional association is a great way to get involved because it allows you to meet other people who share similar career interests and goals as you.”</p>
<p>In other words, professional organizations can really help you connect with like-minded students on campus—and off.</p>
<p><strong>Is it worth the money?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.prx.org/series/32563-the-broad-experience"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/Batch-of-Dollars_square.jpg?itok=81tuFapv" /></a></p>
<p>While professional associations are packed with exciting benefits, the cost of joining—which can often approach <a href="http://www.levo.com/articles/careerexpert/money-matters-is-joining-professional-organization-worth-cost">$100 a year</a>—can be intimidating to potential members.</p>
<p>If you’re unsure about whether joining a professional association is right for you, many campus chapters offer a membership to just the local chapter, so you don’t have to pay to be a member of the national organization, which typically costs more. Rachel DeFeis, a University of Delaware junior, feels that being a member of just her school’s chapter was beneficial; and it was also affordable.</p>
<p>“Not being a dues member has a lot of perks as well,” Rachel explains. “I learned a lot from the general meetings by their guest speakers and workshops.”</p>
<p>Being just a local member has also allowed Rachel to test out the association and ultimately realize that being a national member would be worth it too.</p>
<p>“I think the dues would've been worth doing,” Rachel says. “You get trips and the internship database, and it has its perks.”</p>
<p>Perks like exclusive conferences, members-only networking events and access to internship and job databases are often enough for some collegiettes, like Rachel, to realize that paying the dues in order to become a member of the nation organization is worth the cost.</p>
<p>Brianna agrees; ultimately, she says she feels that her experience as a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists has been worth the membership fee.</p>
<p>“For a small membership fee I have been able to meet and interact with so many cool people while gaining professional experience in the field,” Brianna says. “I would definitely encourage other collegiettes to reach out and join a professional association regardless of their career interests, because they will definitely reap the benefits of it!”</p>
<p><strong>Should you join?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crafthubs.com/indecisive/33620"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="504" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/indecisive-purpose.jpg?itok=fRkeJ4Np" /></a></p>
<p>While it’s not the only way to network successfully, meet other students interested in your career path, and find jobs and internships, professional associations can be a great place to start for collegiettes who want a little extra career help.</p>
<p>Mitler believes that when deciding whether to join a professional association or not, it’s best to consider your own personal circumstances and how you personally would benefit from being a member.</p>
<p>“You should do your research, understand your choices and make sure you can justify the benefits of membership,” Mitler says.</p>
<p>Ann Marie Adams, a strategic communications professor at Ithaca College, agrees that ultimately, doing your research and examining the way a specific organization could help further your career goals is the best way to determine if a professional organization is right for you.</p>
<p>“Much like our investment in higher education, retirement savings or a home warranty, we are banking that the experience will net some return should we ever need to net some benefit from it,” Adams says. “I always encourage young people to look at what they are passionate about, to project what their career goals are and to factor those aspects into what an organization has to offer short or long term.”</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="930" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/26/urban-617277_1280.jpg?itok=SUTzhRrM" /></p>
<p>If you’re interested in joining a specific organization, it can be helpful to ask around to see if other members on your campus have had a good experience, and if they feel it’s worth the money. Ultimately, every organization is different, so be sure to do your research and ask around to make sure you make the right choice! </p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/should-you-join-professional-associationFri, 27 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerCaroline PirozzoloYou Could Win a $3.5K Scholarship by Celebrating Black History Month in Only 500 Words!http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/write-about-african-american-who-inspires-you-you-could-win-scholarship
<p>Whether it's a popular musician or a historical figure, everyone has someone she looks up to. You may have a quote by this person written in your planner or even a poster of him or her up on your dorm wall. It doesn't really matter if this person has won three major music awards or a Nobel Peace Prize; what's important is that they light a fire under you to live fully and well. So the question is, who inspires you?</p>
<p>In honor of Black History Month, <a href="https://www.regions.com/">Regions Bank</a> is hosting its fourth annual <a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA">Regions Riding Forward® Scholarship Essay Contest</a> where students can write a 500-word essay describing an African-American who has inspired them for an opportunity to win a $3,500 or $5,000 scholarship. The deadline to submit your essay is February 26th, so don’t miss out!</p>
<p><a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/11/14RB0120-5people-1440x960.jpg?itok=8dR8XNqX" /></a></p>
<p>If writing is one of your passions, consider this a sign that you should <a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA">apply</a>! There are no specific guidelines as to which African-American you should write about —it’s all up to you! Perhaps a song has inspired you to live each day with nothing but gratitude. Or maybe an actress’s acceptance speech helped you realize that your dreams of being an actress are attainable. Whoever it may be, Regions wants to hear how you’ve been inspired and why this person should be celebrated!</p>
<p>In order to enter, you must be either a high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior and be a legal resident in <a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA">select states</a>. Any eligible student of any gender or race can apply to win! Sixteen high school seniors will be awarded a $5,000 scholarship and 16 college freshmen, sophomores and juniors will be awarded a $3,500 scholarship. Check out the <a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA">Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Essay Contest website</a> for all the details, including eligibility requirements, prize information and the <a href="http://info.regions.com/regions/14/bhm/?ProspectID=D448C125547146EBAD68FC870865E2DA">Contest Official Rules</a>.</p>
<p>Though the clock is ticking, you still have plenty of time left until the Feb. 26 deadline! We hope you seize the opportunity to write about someone you’re truly passionate about—we sure will!</p>
<p><em>Sponsored by Regions Bank.</em></p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/write-about-african-american-who-inspires-you-you-could-win-scholarshipMon, 23 Feb 2015 16:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerMaya DevereauxHow She Got There: Kristen Miglore, Executive Editor at Food52http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-kristen-miglore-executive-editor-food52
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Kristen Miglore<br /><strong>Age: </strong>32<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Executive Editor, Food52<br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>B.A.: U.C. Santa Barbara/Major: Business Econ, Minor: Professional Writing &amp; Editing. M.A.: NYU / Food Studies<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.food52.com">www.food52.com</a><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://www.twitter.com/miglorious">@miglorious</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.food52.com"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/22/HSGT-Kristen-Miglore.jpg?itok=MCiQ1ZFw" /></a><strong> <br />What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Kristen Miglore: </strong>There's sort of a typical week, with occasional curveballs. Mondays are usually full of brainstorming, all-team meetings and getting ready for our Tuesday photo shoots when we cook, photograph and style upcoming recipes and articles all day (I'm usually styling, plus demoing process shots for my column <a href="http://food52.com/blog/category/128-genius-recipes">Genius Recipes</a>). The latter half of the week is usually about catching up on our inboxes, editing and writing, planning our columns further ahead and smaller meetings and calls. But sometimes we have an extra photo or video shoot (or two, or three). Or a team event like <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/blogs/2015/1/6/company-snack-time-at-food52">company snack time</a>. Or <a href="http://food52.com/blog/9050-alice-waters-colorful-carrots-with-butter-and-honey">Alice Waters comes in</a> to make carrots. Anything could happen!</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>Working with a collaborative, supportive, endlessly creative team. In some editorial teams, there can be this constant fear that your ideas will be dismissed—that is the death of creativity. We try to foster an environment where every idea is valid, even if it's obvious or just plain absurd, because it very well might lead to something better. And [I’m on a team] where mistakes are okay—we all make them, and the only way to grow is to own them. The work our team comes up with as a result is original and inspiring. I am consistently in awe, and so proud.</p>
<p><strong>What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>My first real job in food media was with Food52 (after starting as an intern), as Assistant Editor. I got the job by preparing myself for it and getting all the experiences that interested me. I did four editorial internships, I staged in a couple restaurants, I went to culinary school and grad school and talked to people and asked for advice. So when one of those people heard a new startup called Food52 was looking for someone with cooking and editorial experience, I was top of mind, and I was ready!</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>I wish I'd realized how much time I'd spend in my inbox (and still wish I could figure out how to spend less). It's nice to always have a record of communications and decisions made at a fast-paced, growing company, but keeping up can become consuming. If anyone out there knows a good email triage strategy, I'd love to hear it!</p>
<p><strong>Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>I feel very lucky to have been working with <a href="http://food52.com/blog/10516-james-ransom-s-5-essential-photography-tips">James Ransom</a>, our photographer, for over three years. He's extraordinarily talented and has an amazing eye, but he's also a very generous teacher and collaborator. He doesn't hold back in telling us when something doesn't look right to him and works with us until we're all excited by the shot. That balance of honest feedback and support means we're creating stories that are always improving and evolving.</p>
<p><strong>What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>“There are going to be mistakes.” That's what my boss—Food52's co-founder and CEO Amanda Hesser—said last fall when I was obsessing over the final proofs for the <a href="https://food52.com/shop/products/1817-genius-recipes-signed-copy-presale">Genius Recipes cookbook</a>, which is coming out in April. The first print run of a book is deliberately small, she told me, so that you can fix things. In other words, don't be paralyzed by a fear of failing. You're going to fail. Accept it and don't let it stop you from doing great work.</p>
<p><strong>What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>I started out my career analyzing car lease portfolios, which was not a passion of mine, because I was so desperate to get a sensible job straight out of college. And there is value to just <em>doing</em> something, to learn what you like and don't like (Likes: planning dinner; Dislikes: cleaning data, talking about Hondas and sitting in a cubicle). But as soon as you realize you're unhappy and you want something different, start looking. It took me two years to leave.</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>When Genius Recipes was nominated for the James Beard Award in 2014, our Managing Editor Brette Warshaw was watching the live stream on her laptop and started yelping when it was announced. We were in the middle of a photo shoot and I was so stunned I walked away from a half-buttered cake pan grinning like a deranged prom queen with butter all over her hands.</p>
<p><strong>What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>The ability to write in Food52's voice, which is smart, playful and authoritative without being condescending—like a good friend who wants to share the really cool thing he or she learned through trial and error. A consuming love of food. A let's-do-this, team player attitude. No typos, hopefully.<br /><strong> <br />What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>KM: </strong>Talk to people. Try things—cooking, writing, baking bread, herding goats—and figure out what you love spending your day doing. Start a blog—nobody has to read it right away, or ever, but you will learn and get better. Study publications' column formats and voice, and send out pitches—if you're making editors’ jobs easier by giving them smart, well-written content that fits right in (and that they haven't already published—do your homework!), they will take you seriously and very likely publish you.</p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-kristen-miglore-executive-editor-food52Mon, 23 Feb 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily HermanWhat You Should (&amp; Shouldn’t!) Do After an Interviewhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/what-you-should-shouldn-t-do-after-interview
<p>Picture this: You just walked out of an interview for a job you’d kill for. Your <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/what-wear-interview-what-bring-interview">outfit is on point</a> and you’re feeling confident that you totally rocked it. As soon as you get back home, you check your inbox to see if, just maybe, they’ve already emailed you to say that you were by far the most fabulous candidate and the job is yours. (Note: If this has ever actually happened to you, please call us and tell us what you did. Seriously.)</p>
<p>Since the company probably has yet to contact you, the ball is still in your court. For the next couple of weeks, it’s your job to make sure they know how badly you want the job and that you’re the right gal for it. Lucky for any collegiette looking to make a great impression after the interview, Her Campus has rounded up some dos and don’ts of how to follow up.</p>
<p><strong>DO make sure you know the hiring timeline</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.charleskochinstitute.org/koch-associate-program/application-for-admission/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="100" width="472" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/AdmissionTracker-1.png?itok=7pBbc6fr" /></a></p>
<p>Despite our wishes, it’s rare that a company hires someone on the spot at the interview itself. Most hiring takes weeks or months of searching and interviewing to find the right person for the job. In order to start off on the right foot with following up after an interview, it’s crucial that you know the employers’ timeline. </p>
<p>Amy Smith, assistant director at the Hofstra University career center, says that the post-interview waiting game is much easier if you have a timeframe to work with. “To make sure you don’t cross over the ‘pushiness’ line in your follow-up, definitely ask questions during the interview about the next steps in the hiring process so that you already have answers to your follow-up timeline,” she says.</p>
<p>There will be plenty of time after your interview to check your email obsessively and watch your phone like a hawk for word from the employer. Knowing approximately when you should hear back not only eases your mind, but also makes it less likely that you’ll seem too aggressive.</p>
<p><strong>DON’T trip up your timing</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://memegenerator.net/instance/57929035"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="400" width="400" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/57929035.jpg?itok=3wOB3jX-" /></a></p>
<p>After you leave an interview, there a few things you need to do. The first is to call your mom back and relieve her of her anxiety to hear how it went. The second is to send a thank you note. While it may seem tempting to rush home and send one right away, it actually pays off to be more patient.</p>
<p>“Immediately following an interview, you should do nothing,” says Paul Bailo, author of <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Essential-Digital-Interview-Handbook-ebook/dp/B00GN6SU4I">The Essential Digital Interview Handbook</a>.</em><strong> </strong>“It doesn’t help the candidate at all to rush home and send a thank you letter right away. It actually makes you look overeager.”</p>
<p>To avoid seeming desperate, Bailo says you should actually wait one or two days to reach out—</p>
<p>and not any longer than that. Smith advises collegiettes to stay within that timeframe to ensure you’re still on the company’s radar. “For you, the interview is fresh in your mind, which will make it easier for you to remember details that can make your notes more personal to the interviewer,” she explains. “For the interviewers, <em>you</em> are fresh in <em>their</em> mind, and you can build on that great impression they already have of you from your interview!”</p>
<p>Our experts say the golden rule is to make contact between one to two days after your interview, and we’ll talk more about how to do it in our next step. If you stay within this window, you’ll be able to avoid seeming too pushy and still maintain a polite degree of professionalism.</p>
<p><strong>DO send a thank you note</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/five-helpful-thank-you-note-samples-and-tips-after-a-job-interview"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="270" width="480" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/8c8443199ff12537da83d50ba085e742.jpg?itok=T3j7zVTj" /></a></p>
<p>After an interview—especially one you think you nailed—it’s normal to obsess over every single one of your next moves. Of course, the dilemma that might pop up first is <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-send-perfect-thank-you-note">how to write and send your thank you letter</a>. Should it be over email or via snail mail? What should you say? Should it be pink and scented in a nod to Elle Woods? (Hey, SHE got the job.)</p>
<p>According to Bailo, you want to send a thank you via email 24 to 48 hours after the interview. “The premise of that email should imply that you are a valuable employee,” he says. “You want to show that you understood what their problem is—of course, they have a problem because they’re hiring—and then identify yourself as the solution to that problem.”</p>
<p>In Smith’s opinion, collegiettes should spice up their thank-you notes to make them more memorable. “Personalize the notes to reference something that stood out to you in your conversation, or that you’ve thought about since the interview,” she says. When it comes to choosing the medium through which you send your note, Smith says you should be flexible; use your judgment to pick the method that best corresponds with the job you’re applying for.</p>
<p>Grace Diana, a junior at Texas Tech University, knew a handwritten thank you card was exactly what she needed to score the job. “After walking away from the interview, I wrote a note thanking [the hiring manager] for taking the time to interview me,” she says. Within an hour of dropping off the card with the employer’s receptionist, Grace got the job. “She explained that a handwritten note was the sincerest form of flattery and knew that if I had taken the time to write a letter, she was confident I would take the time to successfully complete a task.”</p>
<p>In short, never underestimate the power of a simple thank you. Plus, you know what to do after licking that stamp: Call your mom again and brag about how you just wrote the nicest handwritten letter, the old-fashioned way. Trust us, she’ll eat it up and then tell her friends how proud of you she is.</p>
<p><strong>DON’T connect on LinkedIn until you’re hired</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sparksitsolutions.com/topics2/connecting-with-potential-employers-on-linkedin"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="282" width="425" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/connecting-with-people-on-social-networks7E72CC65A0D9.jpg?itok=GKVfNeem" /></a></p>
<p>Let’s be real: As soon as you have a name of the person who will be interviewing you, you conduct a LinkedIn stalking session that rivals the Facebook one you did on your ex-boyfriend’s new fling. In a world where making LinkedIn connections is one of the <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/linkedin-etiquette-dos-donts">most valuable forms of networking</a>, it’s easy to want to jump the gun and add the person (or people) you met in your interview. After all, it can’t hurt, can it? According to Bailo, it can.</p>
<p>“If you don’t already know the hiring manager or employer (the usual situation), don’t connect with them on LinkedIn,” he says. If they reach out to you, wait to accept the connection until you’ve got the job. “All you’re doing is opening yourself up to scrutiny, which isn’t necessary,” Bailo points out. “If you did a good job [in the interview], why would you want to put yourself at risk?”</p>
<p>The thing about LinkedIn is most of the time, your connections are only meaningful if you actually put in the effort to turn them into stronger relationships. Connecting with your potential boss or coworker before you really know them is rather pointless. In other words, wait until you can send a cute and personal connect request. It’ll be more worth it in the end.</p>
<p><strong>DO continue your job search while you wait</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://poetsandquantsforundergrads.com/2014/07/31/7-sure-fire-ways-to-rock-your-biz-major/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="252" width="490" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/job.gif?itok=CeACE__v" /></a></p>
<p>As exciting as getting an interview is, remember that you’re still not guaranteed anything. Carol Spector, director of career services at Emerson College, says that an important step in the interview follow-up process is to be proactive in looking for other positions. “An interview does not mean an offer,” she says. “Don’t wait for the response [from the employer] without continuing your search.”</p>
<p>This does get tricky when you’re juggling trying to follow up with multiple employers. While you want to be honest with them throughout the hiring process, you also want each individual to think you’re totally gung-ho for that specific position. According to Spector, if you do get an offer, you don’t have to accept it right away. “Once you have an offer, you should check with the employer about [your other options],” she says. “At the time of the offer, it can be a juggling game [to make a decision], but just make sure it’s the right fit for you as a candidate.”</p>
<p>Following up after an interview definitely requires time and patience—but you don’t have to be bored and waiting for a call the entire time. Actively search for other potential opportunities. If you find out your dream job is hiring three days after sending a thank you card for a recent interview, there’s no rule that says you can’t go for it.</p>
<p><strong>DON’T be discouraged if you don’t hear back</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.gurl.com/2012/06/24/taking-plan-b/worried-girl/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="317" width="380" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/worried-girl_0.jpg?itok=ccLobwwU" /></a></p>
<p>If you still haven’t heard back two weeks after the interview, it’s okay to reach out again. “If [two weeks]—or the timeframe you were given at your interview—has passed, you’re completely within your means to follow up,” Smith says. Hiring managers need time and often other people to help them make the final decision, so you may be waiting a while. Again, this is why it comes in handy to follow our first tip so you can have some idea of when you can reasonably expect to hear from the company.</p>
<p>If you don’t hear back from <em>that</em> message after another couple of weeks (about a month after the interview), Smith says you should probably go ahead and look at other options. “You can follow up once more to check on the process, but it might be time to move on and turn your focus to other opportunities,” she says.</p>
<p>Since you’re not going to get every single job you apply for, this will inevitably happen to every collegiette at one point or another. The important thing isn’t to dwell on the past, though; it’s to look toward the future. “Stay confident and patient,” Smith says. “You’ve already put your best foot forward in the interview process, and even if this particular opportunity doesn’t work out, you’ve gained valuable interview experience and maybe even made connections that can be helpful further along in your career!”</p>
<p>Best-case scenario: You get the job. Worst-case scenario: You don’t get the job and you treat yourself to a cheer-me-up cocktail. You can’t exactly lose.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="318" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/19/keyboard-498396_640.jpg?itok=3Abrc2eK" /></p>
<p>Following up after an interview requires walking a line between being overly pushy and seeming interested and persistent. The interview process is a long one, and it can take weeks of making various moves to show how badly you want the job.</p>
<p>If you work within the company’s hiring timeline and show them you know how to reach out with class and diligence, you’ve got a much better shot at getting that congratulatory call.</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/what-you-should-shouldn-t-do-after-interviewFri, 20 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLauren VelezHow She Got There: Julie Walsh, Founder of fitBallethttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-julie-walsh-founder-fitballet
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Julie Walsh<br /><strong>Age: </strong>29<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Founder of fitBallet<br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>UC Irvine/Dance and Global Cultures<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.fitballet.org">www.fitballet.org</a><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://www.twitter.com/fitballet">@fitballet</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fitballet.org"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="576" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/12/HSGT-Julie-Walsh-article-image.jpg?itok=M2efeSsM" /></a><strong> <br />What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Julie Walsh: </strong>Right now, I’m juggling all aspects of owning a business. I train individual clients, teach classes and handle social media and marketing. There really isn’t a typical day, both because my training schedule is different every day and because I’m always trying to jump-start new projects.</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>It’s a pure meritocracy. You need some luck to make it big, of course, but for the most part it’s all about how hard you work and how creative you are. I really like getting out of bed every morning knowing I get to shape my day: what do I want to solve, who do I want to talk to? I really need to impose a meta-structure to make sure I don’t get lost on social media or the Gilmore Girls archives, but having that freedom makes me feel fully awake and like I’m working to my full potential.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>I’m not sure there’s an entry-level position that leads to starting a business! You kind of have to just dive right in. That said, everything I did before starting fitBallet helped prepare me in some way. I went to Harvard Law School and practiced as an attorney for several years, and that made me comfortable with working long hours and with the legal aspects of starting a business. Teaching dance classes helped me understand how to break down and explain physical concepts. Even my summers as a camp counselor in college were helpful, because they taught me how to be “on” as a teacher and hold the attention of a difficult crowd.</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>I wish I’d known that the fitness industry is about support and motivation rather than information. Most people don’t need information on <em>how </em>to work out. They need help getting out of bed in the morning, getting to the gym. Once I understood that, I revamped the services I offered to be more personal, and that really helped the business take off.</p>
<p><strong>Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>My father. He owns a business also, and watching him constantly hustle from the time I was a child really informed my idea of what it meant to be an entrepreneur. I never went into this thinking that running a business was a 9-to-5 endeavor. I knew I was going to have to work constantly, and I was excited about it, because he’d shown me how thrilling it is to be responsible for your own future.<br /><strong> <br />What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>“No one knows what they’re doing, either.” When you’re starting a business, it’s easy to think the advice that more established people give you is pure gold. Just listen and do as they say and you’ll be a huge success! But what worked for them might be totally wrong for you, or they may be misremembering their own first steps…a million different factors are at work in everyone’s personal story.</p>
<p>People love to look backward on their own lives and superimpose a narrative: “I did X and then Y, and then Z happened. So if you also want Z, do X and Y!” You can mine that advice for the parts that’ll work for you, but then you just have to evaluate each situation as it comes and do your best.</p>
<p><strong>What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>Taking things too personally. When I first launched my business, I had this latent assumption that I wouldn’t have to promote myself too much. People would see what I was offering, and they’d come to me, and it would be this great sitting-around-a-campfire situation. When that didn’t happen, I took it personally, thinking what I was offering wasn’t right or wasn’t enough. That was a mistake.</p>
<p>I was confusing the need for intense marketing with the inherent value of my business. I’ve noticed that women often feel uncomfortable marketing themselves and their businesses. Once you stop conflating yourself with your business, it’s easier to promote the <em>business</em>.</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>Watching the transformation of my clients’ bodies. It’s so incredibly rewarding to see someone’s physical shape change—to know that their life is now objectively better, because they’re healthier—and to know that you were partially responsible for that. It’s so intimate when someone invites you to be part of his or her struggle for health. When he or she succeeds because of something you created, that’s a crazy moment.<br /><strong> <br />What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>Responsibility. Mistakes can be corrected, but you can’t fix the attitude of someone who isn’t reliably showing up ready to work. I’m incredibly invested in the success of my business, and I need to get the sense from an employee that they care, too.</p>
<p><strong>What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JW: </strong>Be sure you’re picking something you’re absolutely passionate about. Starting a business is work, regardless of how much you like the area you’re working in. You need an enormous amount of drive to carry you through all the taxes, scheduling issues, and everything else that crops up. Wait until you find the subject that speaks to your soul and then go for it.</p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-julie-walsh-founder-fitballetMon, 16 Feb 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman7 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Career Centerhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/7-reasons-why-you-should-visit-career-center
<p>Spring semester is in full swing, and the summer internship hunt is on. Or maybe you’re a senior approaching graduation way faster than you’d like and you’re starting to panic about finding a job. No matter what step you’re on in terms of your career, you should make a trip to your school’s career center this semester. We know it can be rough to face the reality of job- or internship-hunting, but professionals at your career center can help you out in more ways than you realized. We’ve come up with a few reasons collegiettes should make a visit to their college’s career center ASAP.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" id="media_crop_4876833090092" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/1260787_20061053_2.jpg?itok=4GeCHnOl" /></p>
<p><strong>1. You Can Perfect Your Resume</strong></p>
<p>This one is basic but oh-so-important. Often, your resume is the first thing an employer will see when you apply for a job, so it needs to get across all the most important information about you and your experience in the most concise, easy-to-read manner possible. If an employer has hundreds of resumes to go through, yours may not get more than a two-second glance, so it’s important to catch his or her eye. Who better to help you do this than trained career professionals?</p>
<p>Irene, a senior at Boston University, visited two different career centers: her school’s general career center and one specific to her major. “First, I talked about my resume with someone who specialized in communication, which helped me decide how to best phrase my accomplishments in past internships,” Irene says. She then took her adjusted resume to the general career center, where the advisers provided her with guidance on formatting it professionally.</p>
<p>If your school only has one career center, make an appointment with one associate, and then ask if he or she can recommend anyone who specializes in your specific career field. Some career center associates work more with certain industries than others, and they know their way around those specific job markets. Getting two perspectives will help you achieve the best results!</p>
<p>Your resume carries a lot of weight when you apply for jobs. It has to convince an employer that they should call you in for an interview and hire you, so one poorly-worded phrase can make a huge difference. Even just having a professional proofread it for typos could make the difference between you getting hired and not.</p>
<p>Once your resume is perfected, ask a career center associate if the center has professional resume paper you can print it on. Resume paper can be expensive, and while it’s not mandatory, it <em>can </em>make your resume stand out. If your resume is the one thick, sturdy sheet of paper in a pile of hundreds of flimsy ones, it’s more likely to get noticed by an employer. Many career centers allow students to print on resume paper for free; see if your school’s career center is one of them!</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" id="media_crop_1435288882348" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/02/07/1090138_11652506_1.jpg?itok=4mxT3Hce" /></p>
<p><strong>2. You Can Find an Internship</strong></p>
<p>Whether you have no clue what you want to do with your life or you already have your dream job planned out, your career center is a great resource for locating a job or internship. Make an appointment with a career counselor to discuss what you might be interested in doing or to figure out which internships or jobs you should apply for.</p>
<p>Katherine, a junior at the University of Rochester, went to her career center for help finding an internship. “The counselor was also able to give me the contact information of an [alum] who had done an internship I was considering, so I could email her for advice on the application,” she says.</p>
<p>Your career center has worked with a ton of students in the past; the career centers employees often know people you can talk to who have gone through exactly what you’re doing and are willing to help.</p>
<p>According to Rachel Tannenbaum, associate director of student programming at Barnard College Career Development, many students don’t realize the kind of resources their school provides for them. She says most schools even have their own job or internship posting sites for their students. “Many students delay logging on because they either do not know about it or how to use it,” Tannenbaum says. Your career center can show you awesome websites like these, so head in and see what you’ve been missing!</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="406" id="media_crop_2223475500941" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/533027_58505780.jpg?itok=iZn6OekQ" /></p>
<p><strong>3. You Can Find a Mentor</strong></p>
<p>Your career center can give you access to a whole new <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-people-you-never-thought-network">network</a>. Every school has alumni who have gone on to achieve great things. “A college’s alumni network is a rich but often underutilized resource for students,” says Tannenbaum. “Counselors at your career office can facilitate the meeting, mingling and learning between yourself and an alumnae of interest.”</p>
<p>Ask a career development associate if he or she can put you in touch with an alum in your field. The alum may be able to help you land a job or internship, or at least tell you how he or she made it in the industry and provide some advice. Your career center wants to help you connect with alumni, and often has structured programs to facilitate these connections.</p>
<p>Alumni are a great resource because they’ve been in your exact position and have worked their way up from it. They know what you’re going through and are usually happy to help students of their alma mater. Make an appointment at your career center to see how they can help you build these alumni connections, and check out our article about <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-network-your-school-s-alumni">networking with alumni</a>!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/76029035@N02/6829397791/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="465" id="media_crop_5896721291355" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/02/07/6829397791_ed68a38b8f_o.jpg?itok=C4uQUwP-" /></a></p>
<p><strong>4. You Can Practice Your Interview Skills</strong></p>
<p>We all know <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/5-tips-acing-internship-interview">interviews</a> can be terrifying. You never know if you’ll connect with the interviewer, or if they’ll stick to traditional <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/20-interview-questions-how-answer-them">interview questions</a> or go for ones that are <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/sht-job-interviewers-say-craziest-interview-questions-how-answer-them">a little more out there</a>. It can be difficult to prepare for an interview, but your career center can assist you with this.</p>
<p>“Career service professionals will get into character and provide a simulated interview experience,” Tannenbaum says. “Also, many offices will even tape the interview so you can see with your own eyes how you’ve performed.”</p>
<p>It may seem scary or embarrassing, but your career counselors are there to help you; they know what kinds of questions you may be asked and can help you work out the best possible responses.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="465" id="media_crop_5394610916264" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/02/07/1384591_96122427.jpg?itok=YlWnoN_e" /></p>
<p><strong>5. You Could Get a Grant</strong></p>
<p>Having an unpaid internship can be difficult for a lot of students to manage. That’s why many schools offer internship grants. With an internship grant, you can apply to receive a few hundred or a couple thousand dollars depending on your school and which semester you’re doing your internship.</p>
<p>Visit your career center’s website to see if you can find some preliminary information about what types of grants are available and to which students. Make an appointment at your career center to discuss the application process and requirements; these processes can be tricky to navigate, so it can be extremely helpful to discuss them in person.</p>
<p>Katherine visited her career center to learn more about internship grant opportunities. “[I] found out my school has a program that gives students grants for internships on a first-come, first-serve basis,” she says. “This isn’t a program they really advertise on the website, but the career counselor was eager to give me information about it.”</p>
<p>Even if you’ve never heard about one, visit your career center to see if they offer a grant program like this. Being an unpaid intern can be hard on your budget, so a grant can make a world of difference!</p>
<p><strong>6. You Can Master LinkedIn</strong></p>
<p>Plenty of students are intimidated by the concept of LinkedIn. While we collegiettes love to Instagram and tweet all day long, the idea of a professional social network can be a little daunting. However, LinkedIn is the perfect way to make connections in your field. Get a head start and make an account now if you don’t already have one!</p>
<p>The key to LinkedIn is understanding how it differs from other social media sites. Career counselors know how you can use it to your advantage. “Not only can career service professionals show you how to use [Linkedin], but also how to brand yourself with a strong online profile,” Tannenbaum says. Make an appointment with a career counselor to find out the best way to take advantage of this awesome networking tool.</p>
<p><strong>7. You Can Figure Out Your Future</strong></p>
<p>If you have no idea what you want to do with your life, you’re not the only one. Plenty of collegiettes struggle to figure it all out. What do you want to do after graduation? What do you have to do to meet your professional goals? You may have a lot of questions about how to pick out the right path.</p>
<p>Fortunately for you, career counselors are trained to help you make all these decisions. “Whether it’s through an in-depth counseling session or via a career assessment such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, you will leave your career services office with a greater sense of how your values, skills and personality align with potential career paths,” Tannenbaum says.</p>
<p>The career center is there to help guide you down your professional path. If you’re having a hard time figuring out what kind of job you want, what you should major in or anything else career-related, a career counselor can walk you through your difficulties and help you make the decisions that will benefit you most.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So, collegiettes, if you thought you didn’t need to visit your career center, think again! Your school’s career development office is full of people whose job is to help you get a job. Check out your school’s website for information on how to contact professionals at your career center, or drop by the office and schedule an appointment with a counselor. Making a visit this semester will give your career the boost it needs!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/7-reasons-why-you-should-visit-career-centerSun, 15 Feb 2015 14:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerChristina Madsen3 Foolproof Ways to Sound Professional on the Phonehttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/3-foolproof-ways-sound-professional-phone
<p>When it comes to acting professional, face-to-face interactions usually come to mind, but what about on the phone? It’s hard enough to<b> </b><a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-psych-yourself-any-interview-best-pre-interview-pep-talk">calm your nerves</a> when talking to a potential employer or supervisor, but doing it over the phone can be <em>extra </em>tricky. One of the main things you might worry about is how your voice sounds, but there are tricks to make you strong and confident. Don’t be too self-conscious about how you sound; after all, it’s what you’re actually saying that matters most!</p>
<p>Expert Dr. Paul Bailo, author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Essential-Phone-Interview-Handbook/dp/1601631545"><em>The Essential Phone Interview Handbook</em></a> and PR pros Meryl Weinsaft Cooper and Jessica Kleiman, co-authors of <a href="http://beyourownbestpublicist.com/"><em>Be Your Own Best Publicist: How to Use PR Techniques to Get Noticed, Hired and Rewarded at Work</em></a><strong> </strong>weigh in on how to make your voice sound professional over the phone.</p>
<p><strong>1. Warm up your vocal cords</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://graceandivy.wordpress.com/2010/01/19/a-spoonful-of-honey/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="386" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/12/a-spoon-full-of-honey.jpg?itok=9xXwlK2Q" /></a></p>
<p>You can say as many tongue twisters and vocal exercises as you want, but there is an extra secret ingredient to making your voice sound smoother. “Having a teaspoon of honey can help to soothe your throat,” says Dr. Bailo. By doing this, you can avoid having to cough or clear your throat in the middle of an interview. This is the perfect way to prevent your voice from trailing off while answering an important question. Before you start reciting scales to warm up your voice, grab a spoonful of honey instead.</p>
<p><strong>2. Slow it down</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.muckrack.com/post/29894934270/muckedup-chat-tuesday-slow-pr"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="267" width="330" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/12/tumblr_m9309rItMQ1qh2iqn.jpg?itok=0SKpyuzx" /></a></p>
<p>Here’s an important tip for all you fast-talkers. It’s normal to talk fast on the phone (especially when you’re nervous!), but it’s important to take the time to annunciate. “Talking in a slow natural voice will help you focus on each word you are saying,” explains Dr. Bailo. By slowing down, you will also have time to gather your thoughts and write down or remember any important information throughout the interview. “Taking time to write down notes and referring back to earlier parts of the conversation will help you seem engaged and smart,” say Cooper and Kleiman. Don’t rush the conversation; instead, speak slowly and clearly to help you in the event that you start to get tongue-tied.</p>
<p><strong>3. Stay seated and keep smiling</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.best-job-interview.com/phone-interview-tips.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="283" width="424" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/12/Fotolia_61705535_XS.jpg?itok=lxK_qSp1" /></a></p>
<p>As strange as it may sound, facial expressions and <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/career-body-language-8-nonverbal-ways-shine-workplace">body language have an important role</a> during a phone conversation. “Try to smile as you are speaking with your interviewer,” suggest Cooper and Kleiman. “Believe it or not, that smile will translate into a warmer tone in your voice.” Another thing you can try is sitting down while speaking on the phone. “Sitting down during your interview will help you have a stronger, more focused voice,” says Dr. Bailo. You wouldn’t lie down or frown during an interview, so don’t do it on the phone either!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.best-job-interview.com/phone-interviews.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="255" width="470" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/12/Fotolia_48801198_XS.jpg?itok=8nrKjYWU" /></a></p>
<p>Don’t be intimidated when talking to a future employer or supervisor on the phone. Instead, take the time to prepare your voice beforehand. This way, you can let go of those nerves and feel extra confident for your interview! Even though the person you're speaking with can’t see your face, they can still get a sense of how you interact with people based on how you speak on the phone. By the end of the conversation, you’ll know you’ve <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/7-signs-you-rocked-your-phone-interview">nailed that interview</a>!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/3-foolproof-ways-sound-professional-phoneSat, 14 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerMegan Sweet6 Experiences You NEED to Mention When Applying for Any Jobhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/6-experiences-you-need-mention-when-applying-any-job
<p>As a collegiette applying for your <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/year-year-guide-getting-job-after-graduation">first job</a> or internship, the question, “What qualifies you for this position?” can be the most intimidating one you’ll hear during an interview. After all, when you’re still in school and haven’t exactly had tons of time in the “real world” to feel qualified, how can you demonstrate your skills to potential employers and show what a standout applicant you are? Even if you don’t have tons of experience working or interning already, there are plenty of activities you’re already participating in on campus that you’ve probably never even thought to bring up in an interview or cover letter! From your sorority to playing on the women’s soccer team, we rounded up a list of activities and experiences that you’re not mentioning on your cover letter or during an interview—but totally should be!</p>
<p><strong>1. Acting and theatre</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Studio_Theatre"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="465" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/Florida_Studio_Theatre%2C_Gompertz_Theatre_Interior.JPG?itok=a13yhv2-" /></a></p>
<p>Did you spend the majority of your free time in college on stage? Tom Dezell, author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Networking-Novice-Nervous-Naive-Seeker/dp/1440166099"><em>Networking for the Novice, Nervous, or Naïve Job-Seeker</em></a> says that acting is a great skill to mention no matter what the job you’re applying for is. </p>
<p>“An individual who acted in plays would be comfortable making presentations to groups, which can be important in just about any field,” Dezell says. “Plus, most surveys of common human fears show this is quite prominent, so employers value it.”</p>
<p>Especially in a workplace where you’ll be giving frequent presentations or doing lots of speaking, the ability to be comfortable presenting to a large amount of people is extremely valuable. To mention this skill during an interview or cover letter, try connecting it to your ability to be comfortable speaking in public and confidently presenting your ideas. Dezell recommends looking out for an open-ended question in the interview and taking this opportunity to show the way your acting experience translates to the workplace.</p>
<p>“Any open-ended question regarding what interests them or qualifies them for the job provides the opportunity,” Dezell explains.</p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“My experience as a performer in plays and musicals throughout my time as a student has allowed me to gain valuable public speaking skills, and has prepared me to effectively present my ideas within the workplace.”</p>
<p><strong>2. Leadership positions</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/06/leadership-questions_n_3880624.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/o-BUSINESS-LEADER-WOMAN-facebook.jpg?itok=hY22M2Mi" /></a></p>
<p>You probably already know to mention your experience as student body president or the leader of a major organization on campus; but no matter how big or small the organization you’re a part of is, a leadership position is worth mentioning, as it’ll give you a major leg up. Whether you were president of your <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/life/campus-life/7-things-sorority-girls-won-t-tell-you-about-being-sorority">sorority</a> or the animal rights club, mentioning leadership experience not only shows that you are capable of organizing and managing an organization, but that you are trusted and respected by those who voted you into the position in the first place.</p>
<p>“No matter what the activity, assuming or rising to leadership positions can provide some of the few opportunities students have to demonstrate leadership,” Dezell says.</p>
<p>It’s a great idea to mention current or past leadership positions if an interviewer asks about what qualifies you for a job, since it shows you’ve worked hard and were dedicated enough to an organization to move up and take on that leadership role.</p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“As president of my school’s chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma, I have learned valuable leadership and interpersonal skills, and as a result, I am extremely comfortable leading a team and interacting with others effectively.”</p>
<p><strong>3. Playing a sport</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.uiltexas.org/soccer/state"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="320" width="440" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/soccer-state-2009.jpg?itok=4coO9AkH" /></a></p>
<p>Few activities can teach teamwork and collaboration like team sports do—if you participated in a team sport during college, it’s great to mention it!</p>
<p>“Playing sports obviously often involves teamwork,” Dezell says. “Plus, the winning and losing aspect of sports can build skills in perseverance, which translates well into occupations like sales, account management and customer service.”</p>
<p>In almost any workplace, you’ll have to work with others to reach a common goal, so mentioning the teamwork you learned is always a good idea. Even if your sport isn’t a team sport, it’s still great to point out the way endless hours of practicing to be ready to compete has taught you the skills of dedication, hard work and perseverance.</p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“Playing for the women’s soccer team has taught me how to work effectively with a team of others to work toward a common goal.”</p>
<p><strong>4. School newspaper</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="410" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/newspapers-444449_640.jpg?itok=1_s0PppH" /></p>
<p>Even if you’re not applying to work in a communications-based field, the writing and communication skills you’ve gained from working on the staff of a school publication will make you a standout applicant.</p>
<p>“Working on the school paper not only provides ways to showcase writing and editing skills, but also can document ability to meet deadlines,” Dezell says.</p>
<p>Aja Frost, a California Polytechnic State senior, says she includes her previous journalism experience in cover letters to demonstrate her ability to be creative and think on her feet within time constraints.</p>
<p>“Although I'm not interested in being a journalist, I've done a lot of reporting,” she says. “I use this to show potential employers my excellent written communication skills. For example, I might write in a cover letter, ‘Working for <em>USA TODAY</em> College shaped my abilities to write clearly and concisely on a deadline. These skills would serve me well in a role on your marketing team, where I'd be required to create compelling content within time constraints.’”</p>
<p>Meryl Weinsaft Cooper and Jessica Kleiman, co-authors of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Your-Own-Best-Publicist-Techniques/dp/1601631480"><em>Be Your Own Best Publicist: How To Use PR Techniques to Get Noticed, Hired and Rewarded at Work</em></a>, agree that good communication skills and the ability to meet a deadline are great skills to bring up when mentioning your experience working for a college publication.</p>
<p><strong>“</strong>School newspaper experience means you are a good writer or editor, can tell a story, and you meet deadlines well,” Cooper and Kleiman say.</p>
<p>Good communication skills will always be a major asset in any workplace. Something as simple as connecting the way your writing experience has improved your ability to effectively and concisely communicate a message will make employers take notice.</p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“Working on the staff of my university’s newspaper has enhanced my ability to communicate and write concisely, and this skill has positively shaped my marketing and public relations proficiencies.”</p>
<p><strong>5. Part-time jobs</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.careercast.com/content/10-worst-jobs-2012-6-waiter-waitress"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="400" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/waitress-600x400.jpg?itok=bVZQTxG6" /></a></p>
<p>At first, it may seem insignificant compared to the job you’re applying for, but mentioning any part-time work experience is a great way to show your ability to work well with other people and to be both professional and dependable. Sarah Beth Kaye, a senior at Rutgers University, always makes sure to include the value of her experience working as front desk personnel in a university building.</p>
<p>“While I am not applying for front desk personnel jobs, it shows that I have great people skills and am well practiced in working with people,” Kaye says. “Almost any job in which you talk to people on a professional level, whether or not it fits your future career path, is good to mention because it shows that you are able to communicate professionally and properly with people.”</p>
<p>Cooper and Kleiman agree that, ultimately, any work experience and the skills you’ve learned from it can easily be made applicable to whatever job you are applying for.</p>
<p>“Drill down to what elements could translate to an office or more traditional job,” Cooper and Kleiman say. “Be creative but honest and you’ll have a treasure trove of experience and skills from which to pull.”</p>
<p>Other jobs, like waitressing or working retail, translate well to people skills and customer service as well! Even if your choice of part-time employment isn’t one that involves constantly working with people, mentioning the work ethic it has taught you is a great way to show employers that you’re prepared for the challenge of a full-time job or <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/7-things-you-re-not-doing-get-your-dream-internship">internship</a>. </p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“My summer job as a waitress has allowed me to develop the ability to manage competing priorities and hone my interpersonal skills.”</p>
<p><strong>6. Participating in Greek life</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.admissions.berkeley.edu/2012/11/getting-involved-at-cal-greek-life-and-philanthropy/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="700" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/keep-calm-and-go-greek-23.png?itok=JG9tp7oV" /></a></p>
<p>Ever thought about mentioning your sorority at an interview? Next time, you totally should. Kleiman and Cooper say that few activities provide you with such great people skills as participation in Greek life does, and if you’ve ever worked on your sorority’s recruitment tasks, you’ve definitely gained some valuable marketing skills too!</p>
<p>“On the rush committee for your sorority? You probably have had to develop your interpersonal skills and even garnered a little marketing experience,” Kleiman and Cooper say.</p>
<p>No matter what job you’re applying for, the interpersonal skills participating in a sorority provides you with will be valuable to any employer. It’s also a great idea to mention the way sororities teach leadership, and oftentimes, conflict management when necessary.</p>
<p><u>What to say:</u></p>
<p>“My participation in Greek life on campus has developed my interpersonal skills, and working specifically on our rush committee to attract new recruits has cultivated my marketing and public relations skills.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dumblittleman.com/2014/06/nail-job-interview-even-step-room.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="448" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/10/Answering-hard-questions-during-a-job-interview.jpg?itok=C1Jsr72h" /></a></p>
<p>Even if you haven’t had a ton of time to hone your skills in the real world, showing employers the ways your experiences in college translate to the workplace is a great way to make yourself a standout applicant. Get ready for those offers to start rolling in!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/6-experiences-you-need-mention-when-applying-any-jobThu, 12 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerCaroline PirozzoloBreak Into the Fashion Industry at &#039;Teen Vogue&#039;&#039;s Fashion U!http://www.hercampus.com/career/break-fashion-industry-teen-vogues-fashion-u
<p>Ever dreamed of making a splash in the fashion industry? How about of seeing your byline in <em>Teen Vogue, Vogue</em> or any other national brand magazine? As collegiettes, we like to dream big - and make those dreams a reality! The best place to get started? <a href="http://teenvoguefashionuniversity.com"><em>Teen Vogue</em>'s Fashion U</a>!</p>
<p>This year, <em>Teen Vogue </em>is celebrating 10 years of Fashion University, the only educational program of its kind where the business of fashion is taught by its stars. On March 13-15, more than 500 students like you from around the world will come to <em>Teen Vogue </em>Headquarters in NYC to participate in seminars and workshops hosted by the top talents in the industry! The program brings together designers, models, entrepreneurs and insiders for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students dreaming of breaking into the fashion industry. This year's speakers include Rebecca Minkoff, Zac Posen, Jessica Simpson, Erika Bearman and more, so don't miss out! <a href="http://teenvoguefashionuniversity.com">Apply now</a>!</p>
<p><a href="http://teenvoguefashionuniversity.com"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="412" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/11/Screen%20Shot%202015-02-11%20at%208.39.01%20AM.png?itok=lCTz8LFq" /></a></p>
<p>This year, Fashion University invites students to "Choose Your Major!" All applicants will be able to choose one of three majors to apply for as their focus at the event: Fashion Design &amp; Styling, Editorial, PR &amp; Social and the Business of Fashion. Why choose just one, you ask? The program is designed so that each attendee has the chance to delve deeply into specific career paths he or she is interested in, so you'll learn all the must-know insider info for your field.</p>
<p>Want to be the next student to rock Fashion U? Applications are still open! To apply and see a list of this year's confirmed speakers so far, visit <span><a href="http://teenvoguefashionuniversity.com">teenvoguefashionuniversi<wbr></wbr>ty.com</a>.</span></p>
<p>If you have any Fashion U-related questions at all, don't be afraid to ask! Email <a href="mailto:teenvoguefu@gmail.com">teenvoguefu@gmail.com</a> to learn more.</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/break-fashion-industry-teen-vogues-fashion-uWed, 11 Feb 2015 09:30:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKate MoriartyHow She Got There: Meredith Conte, VP of Marketing at Gannett Broadcastinghttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-meredith-conte-vp-marketing-gannett-broadcasting
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Meredith Conte<br /><strong>Age: </strong>37<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Vice President, Marketing at Gannett Broadcasting<br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>Duke University/Public Policy<br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://www.twitter.com/meredithconte">@meredithconte</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.twitter.com/meredithconte"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="930" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/05/HSGT-Meredith-Conte.JPG?itok=n9oDw1S7" /></a><strong> <br />What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day? </strong></p>
<p><strong>Meredith Conte: </strong>My current job really revolves around people. As the head of marketing for Gannett Broadcasting, it’s my job to help local news stations attract consumers and advertisers to their brand. It means encouraging audiences to watch their local news, to engage with a local station on social media, to help local businesses understand why a partnership with our stations makes sense and so forth.</p>
<p>There really is no typical day, which is a positive. I like a lot of variety in my work, so the fact that I travel to our 46 TV stations around the country, meet with a lot of different people and work on a variety of projects is all good.</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>The best part of my job is coming up with ideas. I love to brainstorm, problem-solve and participate in the creative process.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>My first entry-level job was working as an aide on a political campaign. I got the job by networking with anyone and everyone, starting on the campaign as a volunteer, working hard and then asking for the role when the previous employee moved on.</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>This really applies to all industries but I wish I knew that “how” you do things really trumps “what” you do. When you are in an industry that’s as relationship-oriented as the media business, interpersonal skills, working comfortably through ambiguity and having a high level of resilience are all critical. Those are things they don’t teach in college, so you have to work hard, gain experience and seek feedback to help create a successful professional style.</p>
<p><strong>Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>This will sound corny, but I’d have to say my dad. He was my first professional mentor, always encouraging, sharing wisdom and helping me strategize about various career moves. He was a successful businessman in his own right, and I always found his stories incredibly inspiring and motivating. He and my mom really gave me the confidence to believe in myself and pursue my career. </p>
<p><strong>What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>I have a friend who always signs her emails “Keep on keepin’ on,” and that has stuck with me throughout my career. Every professional has their ups and their downs at every level of their career. The trick is to just keep going. Don’t let yourself get bogged down by any particular issue or circumstance. Just keep plugging away and eventually you’ll find a way out, a new door or an unexpected outcome. Just keep on keepin’ on. </p>
<p><strong>What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>I think the biggest mistake I made was taking one position for the wrong reasons. Earlier in my career, I accepted an offer based on tangible merits without doing enough homework on the company’s culture, and it turned out to be an awkward fit.</p>
<p>The lesson there was really make sure you do your homework about the company and its culture before you jump in. You need to feel confident it’s the right fit all the way around. Gut instincts are really powerful. If you feel something’s off, it probably is.</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>The whole journey has been surreal, to be honest. My career has taken unexpected twists and turns, which have led me down different paths at different times, and I’m really grateful for the entire ride.</p>
<p><strong>What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>Of course I look for the basics: hard worker, self-starter, smart and fit within the organization. But beyond that, I look for spark. Does a candidate have the creativity and curiosity to bring new ideas to the table, to inspire others and to help create a culture of innovation? If so, then that’s a person I’d like to have on our team. </p>
<p><strong>What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MC: </strong>The media business is changing so fast. What it looks like today will no doubt look completely different a year from now. So my first piece of advice would be to keep up with all the disruption and changes in the industry in order to be prepared for interviews, to develop a personal point-of-view about the industry and to be in a position to contribute.</p>
<p>And if this is an industry you really want to pursue, go for it. It is a real thrill to be in the media business and in journalism specifically. To know that your passion for multimedia storytelling can ultimately create change in communities is an exciting prospect. So if you have any interest at all, I say go all in. Don’t worry if you don’t have a journalism degree—the beauty of the business is that degrees are only one part of the mix. Creativity and curiosity get you pretty darn far.</p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-meredith-conte-vp-marketing-gannett-broadcastingMon, 09 Feb 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman7 Quick Fixes You Can Make to Revamp Your Resumehttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/7-quick-fixes-you-can-make-revamp-your-resume
<p>You wouldn’t go out with scuffs all over your favorite pair of pumps, would you? Probably not—you’d polish them to make them look as awesome as possible. The same should go with your resume!</p>
<p>We know that with your super-busy collegiette schedule, you have great experiences listed, and now you just have to make the finishing touches—the polish. But what are the quick fixes you can make in order for your resume to go above and beyond?</p>
<p>We talked to Emily Miethner, the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.findspark.com/">FindSpark</a>, a website that gives young professionals the tools to get a great job or internship, to get the lowdown on a few ways to polish your resume and make it the best it can be.</p>
<p><strong>1. Rewrite the sections that you wrote quickly</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://avajae.blogspot.com/2012/02/when-writing-take-your-time.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/5173086732_3ebc4f5d95_z.jpg?itok=ULwrCr8I" /></a></p>
<p>With great things come a lot of time and effort—we’ve all heard that one before! When it comes to your resume, you need to take your time on it to make sure it comes out <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/9-perfect-resumes-jobs-we-really-want">perfect</a>.</p>
<p>“To make the biggest difference, you definitely need to put time in,” Miethner says.</p>
<p>As much as you may like to be, you’re not Hermione—you can’t simply wave your wand and create a perfectly written and formatted resume. If there are parts that you did write a little too quickly, make sure you go back and touch them up. Start each bullet point off with an action verb, like “led,” “coordinated” and “developed.” Be sure the skills you choose to highlight from a certain experience are truly the ones you want to emphasize, and make sure they show all that you do!</p>
<p><strong>2. Get rid of any irrelevant experience</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://allhealthcare.monster.com/careers/articles/2071-get-your-50-plus-resume-right-how-older-workers-can-balance-experience-with-relevancy"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="250" width="380" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/resume_crop380w.jpg?itok=v27Qpjo3" /></a></p>
<p>We’ve all heard before that undergraduate resumes should be limited to only one page, so it’s really important that your one page shows your best possible self to potential employers.</p>
<p>“You want to make it as clear as possible that you’re relevant for the job as quickly as possible,” Miethner says. That means getting rid of work experience that might not necessarily show why you’re a perfect fit for the company.</p>
<p>So your two summers waiting tables at the local diner? Not super necessary on the resume you’re submitting to that investment banking firm. While Miethner says that while jobs like these definitely had a purpose, they don’t show immediately why you can contribute to a professional job or <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-get-internship-10-best-websites-find-internships">internship</a>.</p>
<p>Instead, Miethner suggests cutting out your <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/6-reasons-stay-motivated-your-summer-job">summer job</a><strong> </strong>so you have more room to expand upon your experiences with the accounting club at your school. Although accounting club isn’t necessarily work experience, it shows your potential employer more immediately that you have the skills to contribute and succeed at the job for which you’re applying. When it comes to putting your work experience on paper, cut out the waitressing and retail jobs—unless they directly relate to the full-time job or internship you’re looking for!</p>
<p>Miether also says you should list your most relevant experiences first. So, when applying to the investment banking firm, you should probably list your experiences with accounting club first and your experiences as the treasurer of your dance team second. Both clubs have given you skills that you can use in investment banking, but accounting club definitely highlights those skills more and should always be listed first.</p>
<p><strong>3. Update to a great font and layout</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://wundergroundmusic.com/there-are-no-literally-no-words-to-describe-this-types-girl-using-words-to-describe-this/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="465" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/girl-typing-on-computer.jpg?itok=XevzQtIF" /></a></p>
<p>As much as we love flowery graphics and pretty borders, we don’t really love them on our resumes. Instead, Miethner suggests keeping your layout simple. Don’t go over-the-top with incorporating color or special designs, Miethner says. Instead, make sure that it’s simple and easy to read.</p>
<p>Miethner says choosing between serif and sans serif fonts is important. Sans serif fonts (think of fonts like Arial, Calibri and Helvetica) don’t have those little horizontal lines at the ends of the letters. Serif fonts (think of fonts like Times New Roman and Cambria) do. This font you’re reading now? It’s a serif font. The default font on your Twitter feed? A sans serif font.</p>
<p>Miethner is a fan of the sans serif font for resumes (so Arial, Calibri or Helvetica) because they lend themselves to titles and bolder type. “I think it’s much easier to read a sans serif font than a serif font,” she says. “Most resumes nowadays are read on the screen, and it’s scientifically easier on the eye to read sans serif on a screen.”</p>
<p>Like everything else, color should also be simple. A pop of color in your header can go a long way in making your resume stick out, but make sure you don’t go too crazy—only use one color, and make sure it’s featured in simple accents.</p>
<p>As far as formatting goes, Miethner says, bearing in mind simplicity, you should keep it consistent.</p>
<p>“Whatever format you do choose, you have to stick with it through your entire resume,” Miethner says. “Otherwise, it’s going to get confusing.”</p>
<p>Read over your resume to make sure all formatting choices are made consistently throughout the entire resume: Make sure you keep your titles the same font size, and make the decision if you’re going to use periods at the ends of bullet points or not. Keep track of the use of commas, dashes and semicolons as well. An inconsistent format is not only confusing for the reader, but shows that you were careless—it’s going to make the hiring manager wonder what else you might get careless about!</p>
<p><strong>4. Check your bullet points for accurate information</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.families.com/blog/clutter-is-taking-over"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="424" width="563" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/noclutter2.jpg?itok=8-BcfuMS" /></a></p>
<p>Nobody likes having to sort through clutter, and simplicity isn’t limited to your font and layout choices—you should keep it simple in your experience descriptions, too! Miethner says you should avoid repeating duties you did for different organizations.</p>
<p>“I feel like one mistake people make is if they have similar roles, they can get repetitive bullets,” Miethner says. “Make sure that every bullet shows a different skill or accomplishment.”</p>
<p>Miethner suggests highlighting the different and varying duties you had with different jobs and organizations not only as a way to give yourself more room on your resume, but to keep from wasting the time of the individual reading your resume.</p>
<p>This will also help hiring managers see the really important skills on your resume. Instead of cluttering it with repetitive information, the hiring manager’s eye will be directly drawn toward your bullet point about displaying exemplary knowledge of AP Style as an editor for your school paper or your ability to make price negotiations through your campus programming board. There’s no need to distract them from what you can really do with a bunch of fluff!</p>
<p><strong>5. Save it in multiple formats</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cultofmac.com/49978/100-tips-21-how-to-save-pdf-files/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="318" width="459" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/20100602-savepdf.jpg?itok=QjN4ymAm" /></a></p>
<p>Have you ever downloaded a worksheet from a professor and the layout on the page was all wrong? That’s because their version of word processor might be different from yours, so the formatting gets all out of whack when opened on a different computer.</p>
<p>You should take that knowledge and apply it to your resume, too. Save it on the default format (.doc, .docx, etc.), but also save it as a PDF. Saving your resume as a PDF is kind of like saving it as a picture, so there’s no way your formatting can get messed up. When sending documents to a hiring manager, be sure to send him or her both formats and let him or her know that you’ve done that for his or her convenience.</p>
<p><strong>6. Spell out all acronyms</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rgbstock.com/bigphoto/mhAOWew/late+homework"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="467" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/mhAOWew.jpg?itok=9iVtO0YC" /></a></p>
<p>When looking over your resume draft, make sure you hunt down all of those acronyms and spell them out! This will give the hiring manager a better idea of what you’re talking about on your resume and will increase your chances of getting recognized for your accomplishments.</p>
<p>So, if you were a member of your student government association, don’t just list SGA President on your resume. Instead, you should spell out the entire acronym—Student Government Association. The same thing goes with different conferences and competitions you participated in. If you were on your college’s cheerleading team and went to the National Cheerleaders Association Collegiate Championship, don’t just say, “NCA National Champion” on your resume; instead, spell the whole title out.</p>
<p><strong>7. Change the file name</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://jobsearch.about.com/od/resumetips/qt/how-to-name-your-resume.htm"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="256" width="384" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/resume_file_names.jpg?itok=I2o5k8oA" /></a></p>
<p>If you’re anything like us, your resume originally had a file name that was really ambiguous, like “resume,” or something like that. Instead, change it to “[First name] [Last name] resume.”</p>
<p>This not only looks way more professional, but makes your resume a lot more identifiable and easy to find for hiring managers, especially when they’re handling a whole swarm of candidate resumes. Nothing would stink more than getting overlooked for a job because the hiring manager couldn’t locate your resume.</p>
<p><a href="http://fastrackjobs.org/student-resume-format"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="282" width="425" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/girl-hire-me.jpg?itok=pKIbjmo-" /></a></p>
<p>It’s always a great feeling when you go out for the night and everyone compliments your super-cute, shiny pumps. You’re looking flawless, and everyone knows it. You’re going to get that great feeling when you polish your resume, too! Good luck, collegiettes!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/7-quick-fixes-you-can-make-revamp-your-resumeSat, 07 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerSara HeathHow to Nail Your Interview Thank You Noteshttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-nail-your-interview-thank-you-notes
<p>For someone with a <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/9-perfect-resumes-jobs-we-really-want">killer resume</a> and on-point <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/3-signs-you-nailed-interview">interview</a> skills, you probably think you’ve got this job or internship in the bag. There can’t be much more to it than that, right? Wrong. You’ve still got to thank the interviewer!</p>
<p>A lot of us remember writing thank you notes to all of our friends after our birthday parties when we were little, and we still might send one Grandma’s way after she sends us a birthday check. An interview thank you note isn’t much different! Interview thank you notes are quick notes, most often sent by email, that you send to <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/real-world/how-follow-after-job-interview">follow up after interviews</a>.</p>
<p>While many of us have heard about sending thank you notes following an interview, they can still be an enigma. How long should you wait to send them? Whom should you send them to? And what do you even write in them?</p>
<p>We talked with Shannon Curtis, the assistant director of Assumption College’s Career Development and Internship Center, as well as Barry Drexler, <a href="http://expertinterviewcoach.com/">expert interview coach</a>, to answer any questions you may have about writing the perfect thank you note.</p>
<p><strong>Why are thank you notes important?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://communicatebetterblog.com/awesome-customer-service-sealed-with-a-thank you-note/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="411" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/thanks.jpg?itok=Rh3-m0sN" /></a></p>
<p>You might not think that a simple note could be important, but believe us, it is. According to Curtis, thank you notes are crucial, and for a bunch of different reasons.</p>
<p>“Following up with a well-written thank you note reaffirms your interest in the role and your excitement to be considered for the opportunity,” she says. “It also makes the interviewer think of you after you leave the office.”</p>
<p>Have you ever worried about making a strong impression on an interviewer? What about the number of other candidates for the job? Writing an awesome thank you note is a great way to tell an interviewer why you want this job more than anyone else and why you’ll do it better than anyone else. Thank you notes also show that you respect and value other people’s time, which is always an attractive quality in a prospective employee. By thanking the interviewer for their time, you’re making yourself stand out for understanding the importance of someone’s time.</p>
<p><strong>How long should you wait to send it out?</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://onmogul.com/articles/7-key-questions-to-ask-in-a-job-interview"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/job-interview.jpg?itok=2HuQWZ9n" /></a></p>
<p>We know what you’re thinking: Thank you notes do seem important, so after acing your interview, when should you send your thank you note out?</p>
<p>Curtis suggests doing so within a 48-hour period and being conscious of the hiring timeline. You want to make sure your thank you note reminds the interviewer of who you are and how awesome you are, so sending it a day after the interview, when you may have slipped a bit from the interviewer’s mind, is a good idea. Remember that some companies want quick turnaround on the hiring process—you don’t want to send your thank you note after they’ve hired someone else for the position!</p>
<p>If you specifically heard something about the hiring timeline, go off that. For instance, if the company is looking to hire someone within 24 hours, you should definitely get your thank you note out ASAP, according to Curtis.</p>
<p>Because you are being mindful of the hiring timeline, it’s usually safer to stick with email thank you notes. This ensures that the hiring manager will receive your thank you note before the hiring decision is made and that it’s not lost in transit on the way to their office. It’s usually best to send the email out during work hours (between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.). Not only does this ensure that the hiring manager will see the email as soon as it arrives in his or her inbox, but it will show that you respect the boundary between the interviewer’s work and personal lives.</p>
<p>For a lot of cases, that 48-hour time period provides the perfect time frame to make sure you’re accomplishing both things: reminding the interviewer of your credentials and still getting it to him or her before it might be too late.</p>
<p><strong>Whom should you send it to?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://gbj.com/2011/08/12/five-things-hiring-managers-wont-tell-you/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/hiring-manager-2.jpg?itok=kVU-5Hv8" /></a></p>
<p>It might seem pretty basic that you’d send your thank you note to the hiring manager who interviewed you, but don’t forget to thank the people who helped you on the way to that interview.</p>
<p>“You should always send a thank you note directly to anyone who has helped you in the interview process,” Curtis says. “If you obtained the interview as a result of networking, thank the person who gave you the connection.”</p>
<p>That’s to say, you should be sending out an email to each individual person who interviewed you. It shouldn’t be a mass email—instead, personalize it. Remember, these people work in the same office and for the same company, and if you send them all an identical thank you note, they’ll know, and it will look completely impersonal and detached. Be sure to make your thank you emails unique to each individual!</p>
<p>Curtis suggests grabbing a business card from each person you talk to on the day of your interview to keep everyone you’ll be writing to straight. This is also a great way to obtain their contact information and to double-check that you have the spellings of their names correct.</p>
<p>Curtis also says that many interviewers ask for feedback from other people within the company, including secretaries, recruiters and anyone else who may have interacted with you throughout the application process. While you probably don’t need to send a thank you email to the secretary who signed you into the building, genuinely thanking him or her in person after he or she helps you is definitely a good idea. You never know who will be talking to the hiring manager, so it’s best to leave the most professional and gracious impression on everyone you encounter.</p>
<p><strong>How much should you talk about yourself and your credentials?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.hiringhand.net/shop/private-resume-writing/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="471" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/resume-writing.jpg?itok=6pGUC1BZ" /></a></p>
<p>We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again—your thank you note is one more chance to remind your interviewer of how great you are! Take this chance and run with it.</p>
<p>This isn’t to say you should regurgitate your resume on your thank you note; the interviewer already has your resume. Instead, touch upon a few of your skills that are really specific to the job you’re applying for.</p>
<p>Drexler suggests you say something like this: “As we discussed, I believe my [specific background] will enable me to contribute to your efforts to [cite key job responsibility]. I’m certain that I will add value quickly and have a significant impact at [company].”</p>
<p>Where he puts “specific background” in brackets, pick out what you think are the best traits you have for this specific job. You could mention your leadership skills from your time in student government or your experience with accounting from your internship last summer. This is your chance to highlight the skills that you have that some of the other candidates may not!</p>
<p>Where he puts “cite key job responsibility” in brackets, choose two or three of the many responsibilities the job listing probably provides you with. Following the interview, choose what you believe is both the most important responsibility of the job and that you feel you can accomplish the best.</p>
<p><strong>How much should you talk about the interview?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://iwantmycareer.com/women-often-get-wrong-salary-negotiations/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="266" width="400" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/Female-Negotiation.jpg?itok=mSF0YpQM" /></a></p>
<p>Chances are, you’re not the only person applying for this job. You could be one of 10 or one of 100 applicants. Because of this, you need to remind the interviewer of the time you spent with him or her.</p>
<p>“The interviewer might not immediately remember who each candidate is,” Curtis says. “Reminding them about a conversation or something specific that you discussed can be helpful to the interviewer to make the connection.”</p>
<p>If you really hit it off with the interviewer about your passion for the company’s message, mention that conversation. If he or she gave you a really great answer to one of your questions, make sure to mention that you learned a lot about the job and the industry from him or her.</p>
<p>When writing this, you could say something like, “I loved discussing [this common interest] with you. I learned a lot about it, and feel I could learn even more and contribute [skills X,Y and Z] if given this opportunity.” Reiterate to the interviewer that an aspect of the job that came up in your interview is something that excites you and that you want to explore deeper.</p>
<p><strong>What should you avoid writing?</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://redshoemovement.com/salary-negotiation-strategies/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="380" width="300" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/Ways-to-Negotiate-Salary.jpg?itok=_gp7TR5O" /></a></p>
<p>Just like there are tons of things you should do in the thank you note, there are also plenty of things you shouldn’t do. There are the easy things to check for, like checking for proper grammar and spelling, as well as the use of informal language, but Curtis says there are many other practices to be wary of.</p>
<p>“Do not assume that you are moving forward in the interview process or receiving an offer,” she says. “Never discuss salary, benefits or any other compensation.”</p>
<p>Talking about salary and benefits before being offered the job is like asking someone you just met how much she makes at her job; it’s just a distasteful thing to do. It also shows that you’re assuming you’ll be getting the job, which might make the hiring manager think that you’re conceited. Nobody likes the overly presumptuous job candidate, so avoid saying things like, “I’d like to discuss the benefits package that goes along with this job,” or, “I’m open to salary negotiation.”</p>
<p>You don’t need to be sheepish or shy in your thank you note, either! Even if you’re avoiding subjects of compensation and assuming a job offer, you should still express an interest in continuing the application process.</p>
<p>Curtis suggests that you tell the interviewer that you’ll stay in touch with him or her, and that you look forward to hearing back from him or her.</p>
<p>Saying things like, “it was great speaking with you, and I look forward to talking again,” or, “I plan on keeping in touch, and am excited for further correspondence,” to conclude your note is not rude; it actually shows how excited you are for the opportunity and that you are confident that you can contribute something to the company. Close your note by being confident in your own abilities, and you’ll make the interviewer confident in your abilities.</p>
<p><strong>How it should read</strong></p>
<p>With all of this said, what should your thank you note say? It should appear something like this:</p>
<p>“Dear Mr./Ms. [interviewer’s name],</p>
<p>Thank you so much for meeting with me on [indicate date here]. You provided a lot of great information regarding [insert company name here] and [the job position], which makes me even more eager to join your team.</p>
<p>I really enjoyed discussing [insert common interest here]; it was really interesting when you said [insert anecdote here] and it made me think [insert thought here] about the job. [Use this space to connect your common interests to the job for which you’re applying]</p>
<p>As we discussed, I believe I offer [skills A, B and C] to your team. My experiences with [specific background experience] will truly shine in [insert specific job responsibilities here], and I would prove an asset to the company.</p>
<p>Once again, thank you so much for your time and your consideration. I plan on keeping in touch and am excited for further correspondence. As always, you can reach me by the below email and cell phone number.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your name]</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.levo.com/articles/career-advice/thank-you-cards-importance"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="448" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/04/Writing-Advice-from-Nicholas-Sparks.jpg?itok=AhuvdJxt" /></a></p>
<p>When it comes to post-interview thank you notes, the key is to be sincere and enthusiastic. Remind the interviewer of why you’re a great fit for the job, why the company is a good fit for you and why you’re so enthusiastic. If you remember all of that, you’re good to go!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-nail-your-interview-thank-you-notesThu, 05 Feb 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerSara Heath5 Reasons to Intern Abroad This Summer (&amp; How to Do It)http://www.hercampus.com/career/5-reasons-intern-abroad-summer-how-do-it
<p>As you make your summer plans, you’re faced with a decision: Do you fulfill your wanderlust dreams, traveling and taking it easy? Or do you get serious and score some professional experience for your resume? We ask: Why choose? We want to have our cake and eat it too, obviously. The solution: Intern abroad this summer!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.smallerearth.com/us/internships/business/business-internships-in-london-327/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="337" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/1361992373Intern%2520in%2520London.jpg?itok=5OkSBTLd" /></a></p>
<p>Interning abroad can seem super daunting; it’s hard enough to figure out where to live and how to find housing, and harder still to find the perfect internship for you – where do you even start, and how do you convince a foreign company to take you on? That’s where <a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship">The Intern Group </a>comes in; it’s the fast track to the best internship (and the best summer) any ambitious collegiette could ask for! Find out why you should intern abroad (and how to make those dreams a reality):</p>
<p><strong>1. You’ll gain unparalleled professional experience</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.danijohnson.com/2013/earn-the-professional-grade-paycheck/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="281" width="391" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/iStock_000021260211XSmall-e1366753357669.jpg?itok=jaFVHVvf" /></a></p>
<p>The easiest way to stand out from the crowd when you’re hunting for a job after college: have something amazing, unique and unforgettable on your resume! Internships abroad are one-of-a-kind, and they show you went the extra mile with your professional development – not only did you hone your skills in a world-class company, but you also sought out and succeeded in an all-new, challenging environment (something employers will swoon over).</p>
<p>With the Intern Group, you can <a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship">apply</a> directly and then be placed at a top company in the industry of your dreams in <strong>London, Hong Kong, Madrid, Australia or Latin America</strong>. Check out their offerings – with over 1,000 partner company relationships that regularly host their participants, they can find the best internships for every person in all these fields:</p>
<ul><li>Architecture</li>
<li>Art &amp; Design – example company: <a href="https://www.proudonline.co.uk/">Proud Galleries in London </a></li>
<li>Engineering</li>
<li>Entrepreneurship</li>
<li>Fashion – example company: <a href="http://www.paolita.co.uk/">Paolita in London </a></li>
<li>Finance: – example company: <a href="http://www.franklintempleton.com.hk/">Franklin Templeton in Hong Kong </a></li>
<li>Government &amp; Politics – example organization: <a href="http://wp.presidencia.gov.co/Paginas/presidencia.aspx">The Colombian Government in Colombia </a></li>
<li>Hospitality, Events &amp; Tourism – example organization: <a href="http://paninternational.com.au/">The Pan International Events Management Company in Melbourne </a></li>
<li>HR &amp; Talent Management</li>
<li>International Business</li>
<li>Information Technology</li>
<li>Journalism &amp; Media – example company: <a href="http://www.guidepost.es/"><em>Guidepost Magazine</em> in Madrid</a></li>
<li>Law</li>
<li>Medical Electives &amp; Public Health</li>
<li>NGOs/Nonprofits – example company: <a href="http://www.techo.org/">TECHO in Colombia </a></li>
<li>PR &amp; Marketing – example company: <a href="http://www.quintessentially.com/">Quintessentially in London</a></li>
<li>Real Estate</li>
<li>Theater &amp; Music</li>
</ul><p>No matter which field you intern in, you can score professional development through leadership workshops, specialized training and other perks!</p>
<p><strong>2. You’ll experience a new culture</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://frugalfrolicker.com/colombian-coastline/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/wpid5402-cartagena-colombia.jpg?itok=3zk48mTJ" /></a></p>
<p>Whether you’ve already studied abroad or have yet to, you know that one of the biggest benefits of the experience (and one of the reasons why it also looks awesome on a resume), is that allows you to see the world, your work and yourself from completely different perspectives.</p>
<p><u>Capitalize on cultural experiences</u></p>
<p>Take advantage of cultural offerings in the area set up by your program! The Intern Group experience in London, for instance, includes excursions to the theater, traditional afternoon tea, trips to iconic tourist destinations, a guided cruise of the River Thames and more, meaning you’ll soak up all the local flavor and learn about the people and places around you. Plus, you’ll get to spend your free time exploring your city, chilling out in the sunshine and eating all the national treats you can get your hands on.</p>
<p><u>Opt to live in a homestay</u></p>
<p>There’s no better way to get to know a new culture than to live right in the midst of it! You have the option of living in a shared apartment with other interns or student housing, but you can also live with a local family in Colombia or London. Opportunities like these make the difference between traveling abroad and living abroad; you’ll never experience anything like it anywhere else.</p>
<p><strong>3. You’ll make friends and networking connections</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="412" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/group%20with%20building.jpg?itok=3qWU_zl0" /></a></p>
<p>A friend a day keeps homesickness away! The best way to make the most of interning abroad (and traveling abroad in general) is to get to know the people around you so you feel at home wherever you are. Programs that organize internships, housing, group activities and the like let you make friends you otherwise would never have met in a foreign city, so you’ll have brand-new besties to make all those memories with.</p>
<p>Bonus: Some of the most valuable connections you’ll make while you’re abroad are networking connections, so take advantage of your time surrounded by ambitious people! Whether they’re your peers in the program or your superiors in the office, these new acquaintances could give your career the jump-start it needs to land you the perfect position down the road. Stay in touch!</p>
<p><strong>4. You could learn a new language</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="411" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/4.png?itok=XeXMF7-O" /></a></p>
<p>Internships are all about gaining professional experience, networking and learning more about what you love (and what you don’t), but that doesn’t mean you can’t pick up some life skills on the side while you’re at it. By <a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship">interning abroad</a>, you’ll be able to learn a brand-new language or advance in one you already know. Language study opens up new doors and makes you stand out even more in the professional world, so why not brush up on some business Chinese or conversational Spanish for the summer?</p>
<p><strong>5. You’ll have the travel experience of a lifetime</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jl-mccreedy/visit-hong-kong_b_5202842.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="310" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/o-HONG-KONG-facebook.jpg?itok=V0JU74tL" /></a></p>
<p>The most obvious reason to intern abroad? Obviously it’s the opportunity our wanderlust was waiting for – exploring a brand-new place and gaining world-class experience you could never find so close to home. Think of the pastries, the Insta opportunities and, best of all, #lifegoals you’ll be checking off in one single summer! Having our cake and eating it too never tasted so sweet.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/03/2.png?itok=WtGiGFyP" /></a></p>
<p>Ready to take the plunge and intern overseas? <a href="http://bit.ly/abroadinternship">Apply now to The Intern Group </a>to score your spot in the program and find the internship you’ve been waiting for!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/5-reasons-intern-abroad-summer-how-do-itTue, 03 Feb 2015 13:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKate MoriartyHow She Got There: Morgan Rhodes, Author of the ‘Falling Kingdoms’ Serieshttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-morgan-rhodes-author-falling-kingdoms-series
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Morgan Rhodes<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Author of the <em>Falling Kingdoms</em> series<br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>Humber College/Advertising &amp; Graphic Design<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.morganrhodes.net">www.morganrhodes.net</a><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://www.twitter.com/morganrhodesya">@morganrhodesya</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.morganrhodes.net"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="838" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/02/01/HSGT-MorganRhodes%20-%20credit%20ShanonFujioka.jpg?itok=HYSY-ZQV" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Morgan Rhodes: </strong>My job as an author currently entails writing and revising two books a year for my publisher, Penguin Books. For me, there’s no such thing as a typical day. When I’m on deadline, I’m writing many hours a day. In between books and in my spare time, I post on social media outlets as well as plot the next book. My workday hours (I work at home, very connected to my email!) have been anywhere from two to 18 [hours], depending on what part of the process I’m at. Usually I work seven days a week. Some authors joke that being a published writer is like having homework for the rest of your life. I’m okay with that!</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>The best part of being an author is being able to make things up out of my imagination and get paid for putting them down on paper! Also, the flexibility of being able to write whenever or wherever I want to, so long as I meet my deadlines, is wonderful. Additionally, getting to meet readers in person at signing events is an incredible experience.</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>I did a lot of research when it came to publishing, so I had a good idea what to expect. However, some things that are said about writing—such as, it’s incredibly hard to make a living at it!—are very true. However, with hard work, patience and a dash of luck, I have been self-employed as a writer for over five years now, so I’m very happy to be proof that it is possible to make a living from writing fiction.</p>
<p><strong>As a <em>New York Times</em> best-selling author, can you talk more about your writing process? Do you have any tips for young women hoping to write their first book someday?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>My writing process has evolved over the years to one that works well for me. I am definitely an “outliner” and lately have gotten to the point where I outline each chapter. Things may change as I start writing, which helps to keep me on my toes, but having that “map” is essential to my process. I write first drafts pretty fast, usually in 4 to 6 weeks. Edits take much longer, layering in description and smoothing out plot points, but that fast first draft is essential for me so I can get the bones down.</p>
<p>My main tip for aspiring authors is to believe in yourself and get the book written from beginning to end. I know so many writers who doubt themselves and their works-in-progress so much that they never finish a project. They then move on to another. And another. But nothing ever gets done! So I suggest sticking with it, shoving aside the doubts and getting the work done because everybody has those doubts. It’s those who are able to push past them who are able to get to the next level.</p>
<p><strong>Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>Most definitely my agent, Jim McCarthy, whom I’ve been with for ten years. He took a chance on a slush pile query letter, read my manuscript and has been with me every step of the way since, cheering my successes, but also helping to motivate me when I’m down. Without him I have no idea where I’d be right now!</p>
<p><strong>What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>Earlier in my career, I experienced greater doubt about my abilities as a writer and allowed myself to be led astray in an edit which, I feel in retrospect, stripped a lot of my “voice” from that book. Like many of the characters I write about, I rely on gut instinct to help lead my way in life. At the time, that doubt deafened me from my ability to listen to those instincts, so I simply went with the flow. I’ve since learned to trust my process more and pay attention to my insights when something feels off.</p>
<p>I do, however, think mistakes are incredibly important. Without them we don’t learn and grow. Every mistake I’ve ever made (that I’ve acknowledged, anyway!), has led me to greater personal insight, which has helped shape the author and the person I am today!</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>There have been plenty of surreal moments! Probably the biggest one was learning that I had hit the <em>New York Times</em> list the third week after <em>Falling Kingdom</em>’s release. I was kind of like, “Wait…<em>what</em>?”<br /> <br /><strong>What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MR: </strong>Truly, my best advice would be to get a “day job” that you love, since writing is definitely not a career you can depend on to pay the bills. Write what you would love to read, but can’t find on the shelves. Educate yourself about the writing process and the publishing industry. And, most importantly, believe in yourself!</p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-morgan-rhodes-author-falling-kingdoms-seriesMon, 02 Feb 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman4 Things Employers Wish They Saw on Your Resumehttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/4-things-employers-wish-they-saw-your-resume
<p>Scoring a job or internship is no easy feat. Not only do you have to do your absolute best to prepare your resume, cover letter and interview answers, but you also know you’re up against hundreds or thousands of other students who are just as qualified for the job as you are. Maybe they don’t have your impeccable taste in interview outfits, but apparently employers won’t hire you just for your shoes. Bummer.</p>
<p>If there’s one thing that can undoubtedly make you stand out against other candidates, it’s your resume. Luckily for any collegiette looking to land the job rather than get lost in the shuffle, we talked to a few experts to find out what your resume needs to catch an employer’s eye.</p>
<p><strong>1. Numbers</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/woman-looking-over-papers-royalty-free-image/171283220"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="337" width="507" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/29/171283220.jpg?itok=LbZFRuM7" /></a></p>
<p>If the only digits on your resume are dates and your phone number, your resume could use an upgrade. According to the experts, the number one thing that college students are missing on their resumes is numbers that show the impact of what you’ve done.</p>
<p>Emily Miethner is the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.findspark.com/">FindSpark</a>, a community of career advice for young creatives. According to Miethner, adding numbers to your resume helps employers see specifically what you’ve done. “For example, if you’re an editorial intern on a media site, of course you helped create social media content and edit articles,” she says. “Tell me that you wrote 20 articles a month or that you helped increase the website’s traffic or <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-get-more-followers-twitter">Twitter following by X percent</a>.”</p>
<p>Meryl Weinsaft Cooper, co-founder of Allen/Cooper Enterprises and <a href="http://beyourownbestpublicist.com">author</a>, agrees that measurable results make a big difference on a resume. “For example, if you ran the social media committee for your sorority and increased the organization’s Twitter followers a significant percentage, call that out on your resume,” she says. “It will demonstrate that you are effective and able to garner results.”</p>
<p>If everyone else’s resumes say, “wrote social media content” but yours says, “wrote 50+ tweets for the company account,” it could easily make the difference in whether or not that employer wants you to run his or her company’s Twitter account.</p>
<p><strong>2. Experience relevant to the specific position you’re applying for</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/83428770@N06/10263014654/in/photostream/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="640" width="427" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/29/10263014654_d494b1b86b_z.jpg?itok=SdmupgBh" /></a></p>
<p>Let’s be real: It’s way easier to have one really great and perfected resume that you want to submit to every employer. However, our experts say that you should be tweaking it based on the job you’re applying for so that your resume matches up nicely with what they’re looking for.</p>
<p>Adrian Granzella Larssen, editor-in-chief of The Daily Muse, a career advice website, says you need to make it clear to the hiring manager why you are perfect for the job. “That means going through the job or internship description, highlighting what the hiring manager is looking for most, and making sure those experiences and skills come through loud and clear in your resume,” she says.</p>
<p>If you’re applying for an internship or job for which you don’t have much relevant experience, don’t worry. Lori Fradkin, executive features editor for Cosmopolitan.com, says employers are understanding of the fact that collegiettes aren’t up to their eyes in job experience. “I don’t expect people to come out of college with tons of professional work, but I do want to see that you have some experience in doing what you want to do,” she says. “Whether it’s through a job or an extracurricular activity—point out the things you’ve done and how you can use them to contribute [to the company].”</p>
<p><strong>3. Projects you’ve led</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/channel-programs/300072112/10-it-skills-rapidly-headed-toward-extinction.htm"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="400" width="400" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/29/handing_resume400.jpg?itok=W91Ll8qn" /></a></p>
<p>If your resume doesn’t tell employers that you planned a sorority date event from start to finish or that you were in charge of your intern project last summer. Including projects you’ve led on your resume can tell employers more about you than anything else on the paper. For one, it shows that you’re willing to take charge. “I really look for interns who take initiative and can take projects and run with them,” Larssen says. “I love seeing examples of that on a resume.”</p>
<p>Career expert <a href="http://www.vickisalemi.com">Vicki Salemi</a> says collegiettes should focus on the specifics of projects they led and why they were important.</p>
<p>“Maybe you studied abroad and during your internship, took the lead on a special project,” she says. “You need to stand out, and one way to have your resume pop is to include specific experiences that aren't typical. Sure, study abroad is incredibly popular, but it's how you spent your time abroad and what you brought back to the U.S. that recruiters want to see. This is what makes you shine!”</p>
<p><strong>4. A link to your website</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/video/clip-2794174-stock-footage-girl-typing.html"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="224" width="400" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/29/stock-footage-girl-typing.jpg?itok=hJPzeZXO" /></a></p>
<p>Got a Tumblr with years of your graphic design work on it? A Wordpress blog where you’ve been collecting press releases you’ve written? Add the link to your resume! “Links to your blog, personal website or (at the very least) LinkedIn profile [are great],” Larssen says. “I've been in many interviews where students tell me about their blog or website—and I'm always shocked that it wasn't on their resume! That's a great way to help a hiring manager learn more about you and to stand out among other candidates.”</p>
<p>Personal websites like blogs are fantastic for showing off creativity and style, but just be sure that your online presence is clean. “Don’t include any website or social media profile that you don’t want employers to see,” Cooper says. “My co-author once interviewed a candidate who had a YouTube channel listed on his resume with some NSFW content on it. Needless to say, he didn’t get the job!”</p>
<p>If your Tumblr also links to your Facebook—where your friend tagged you in that picture of the time you thought it would be fun to dance on the bar—make sure your hiring manager doesn’t stumble upon that.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-ways-add-your-resume-over-winter-break"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/29/Resume-review1a.jpg?itok=xrsvmKbd" /></a></p>
<p>Going the extra mile could easily make the difference between whether or not you score the job, so make sure you’re keeping these four things in mind when you write your resume!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/4-things-employers-wish-they-saw-your-resumeSat, 31 Jan 2015 19:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLauren Velez7 Perfect Office-Ready Pieces for Curvy Girlshttp://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/7-perfect-office-ready-pieces-curvy-girls
<p>Shopping for what to wear for your job or <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/how-start-your-internship-search">internship</a> can be a struggle. Shopping for work clothes when you’re not a size zero? Even more challenging. You want to look professional and office appropriate, but you also want to show off your sense of style in clothes made to flatter your curves. The key is to create a career wardrobe that mixes both classic essentials, like the perfect blazer and pencil skirts, with on-trend pieces, all in silhouettes that flatter your body. The best part? We’ve done all the searching for you. Keep scrolling to see the seven essentials you need to chic-ify your workday wardrobe.</p>
<p><strong>1. A work-appropriate LBD</strong><br /> </p>
<div style="width:620px;margin:0 auto">
<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/work-appropriate_lbd/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147586742" target="_blank"><img alt="Work-Appropriate LBD" border="0" height="361" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/VqPV3If768BUlpAeZg8w/cid/147586742/id/hA6GAnum5BG-X6fQtfvecw/size/c620x361.jpg" title="Work-Appropriate LBD" width="620" /></a></div>
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</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/work-appropriate_lbd/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147586742" target="_blank">Work-Appropriate LBD</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/pocket_tote/shop?query=pocket+tote" target="_blank">pocket tote</a></small></div>
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<div style="padding-top:16px">
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127904274" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127904274.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127904274" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Womens plus dress</a><br />eloquii.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127914932" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127914932.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127914932" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Knit dress</a><br />fullbeauty.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=90239579" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/90239579.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=90239579" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BCBGMAXAZRIA leopard heels shoes</a><br />dsw.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=126063573" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/126063573.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=126063573" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shoe Republic LA classic black pumps</a><br />heels.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=109638987" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/109638987.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=109638987" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Black satchel handbag</a><br />dailylook.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=122387354" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/122387354.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=122387354" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MANGO pocket tote</a><br />$34 - mango.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>The most versatile career piece you can have in your closet? The little black dress, but a version that’s more work-appropriate than your favorite LBD <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/style/catwalk-campus/7-best-plus-size-holiday-dresses">for a night out</a>. It works for any season and can be styled in tons of ways – it’s the perfect go-to piece for those “I have nothing to wear!” days. Hurley says it’s also the perfect piece for curvy girls looking for a more streamlined silhouette, especially through the midsection.</p>
<p>“For areas that you want to look smaller, darker colors are good,” Hurley says. “I like to suggest to my clients that, especially if they carry more weight in their stomach area, they have a more monochromatic look through the stomach.”</p>
<p>The trick to making the piece work for the office is to look for longer lengths and a more covered-up silhouette at the top. We love this sheath dress from Eloquii, which has a flattering hourglass shape but has angular cutouts up top to add a cool-girl touch. Another great silhouette for curvy shapes is the fit-and-flare LBD, like this ponté knit dress from Jessica London, which will highlight your hourglass shape. Style with leg-lengthening black pumps and a black bag to go for the all-black look, or add printed, colorful accessories, like leopard pumps and a red bag, for a vibrant touch!</p>
<p><strong>2. A well-tailored blazer</strong></p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/well-tailored_blazer/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147587709" target="_blank"><img alt="Well-Tailored Blazer" border="0" height="414" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/4OIiRtZVRbr8ptJQZ73lQ/cid/147587709/id/YFvMZHym5BGUDYd9q2AFrA/size/c620x414.jpg" title="Well-Tailored Blazer" width="620" /></a></div>
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</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/well-tailored_blazer/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147587709" target="_blank">Well-Tailored Blazer</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/plus_size_white_coat/shop?query=plus+size+white+coat" target="_blank">plus size white coat</a></small></div>
<div style="width:620px;margin:0 auto">
<div style="padding-top:16px">
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128208469" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/128208469.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128208469" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Plus size white coat</a><br />lanebryant.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=122974144" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/122974144.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=122974144" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Paper Dolls plus size black jacket</a><br />$53 - asos.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127974956" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127974956.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127974956" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Quilted jacket</a><br />fashiontofigure.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>Like the LBD, the basic blazer is a work-wear staple that will never go out of style. Hurley says curvy collegiettes should add one to their wardrobes because of its versatility and flattering “V” shape.</p>
<p>“A blazer is one of the best things to make sure you have in your wardrobe because they go with everything,” Hurley says. “You can take a blazer and put it over a sleeveless top to make it appropriate for work.”</p>
<p>While we love a more oversize shape for off-duty looks, for the office, invest in a shape that has a more tailored waist and ends at the widest part of your hips, which looks more dressed up for the office. To flatter a curvy shape, Hurley recommends investing in a quality blazer to make sure it is tailored and structured enough to fit your curves correctly.</p>
<p>“The more structure it has, especially in terms of having seams along the waistline, the more it will create the look of a waist and be flattering,” Hurley says.</p>
<p>It’s all in the details: Tailored seams at the waist and pockets that slant slightly downward on this tailored jacket from Lane Bryant create the illusion of a narrower figure and emphasizes an hourglass shape. For the spring and summer months, it’s also great to have a white blazer on hand; we like this pretty quilted one. Want to really make a statement with your office wear? Try a fun color or pattern, like a floral blazer, which can brighten up a monochrome ensemble!</p>
<p><strong>3. A perfectly cut pencil skirt</strong><br /> </p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/perfectly-cut_pencil_skirts/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588090" target="_blank"><img alt="Perfectly-Cut Pencil Skirts" border="0" height="414" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/CFf5Ij9rUWtjZjL3JEi5g/cid/147588090/id/xHXS7nym5BGJRyJ-q2AFrA/size/c620x414.jpg" title="Perfectly-Cut Pencil Skirts" width="620" /></a></div>
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<p>
</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/perfectly-cut_pencil_skirts/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588090" target="_blank">Perfectly-Cut Pencil Skirts</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/pencil_skirt/shop?query=pencil+skirt" target="_blank">pencil skirt</a></small></div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=125240167" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/125240167.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=125240167" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jones New York pencil skirt</a><br />macys.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127977531" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127977531.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127977531" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pencil skirt</a><br />lanebryant.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127152817" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127152817.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127152817" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">White skirt</a><br />torrid.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>Not a big fan of the pantsuit? A pencil skirt is a great way to look polished and professional without being boring! For work, it’s totally worth it to invest in a basic go-to pencil skirt in a quality fabric. Hurley says the key is to look for crisp fabrics that aren’t as stretchy or form-fitting as the pencil skirts you might wear for a night out, and to pay particular attention to the length.</p>
<p>“The most common mistake that curvy girls make is wearing their clothes too tight,” Hurley says. “Pencil skirts are great; the general best length is around the middle of the knee, or just above the knee at most.”</p>
<p>We like the side-zip detail on this skirt from Lane Bryant, which gives it a fashion-forward touch that still looks appropriate for the office. Also look for a wrap shape, like this leopard print wrap skirt, which are not only super on-trend but also flatter curvy shapes. Color-blocking details near the hem of the skirt in a bright color such as pink can also have the effect of balancing out curvy hips and streamlining your silhouette.</p>
<p><strong>4. A pretty patterned dress</strong><br /> </p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/pretty_patterned_dresses/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588462" target="_blank"><img alt="Pretty Patterned Dresses" border="0" height="414" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/jcci18qN0EK8E3VDxTeimg/cid/147588462/id/9u11bn2m5BGUHDkdZFZllw/size/c620x414.jpg" title="Pretty Patterned Dresses" width="620" /></a></div>
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<p>
</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/pretty_patterned_dresses/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588462" target="_blank">Pretty Patterned Dresses</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/black_booties/shop?query=black+booties" target="_blank">black booties</a></small></div>
<div style="width:620px;margin:0 auto">
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128643566" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/128643566.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128643566" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eloquii bodycon dress</a><br />$110 - nordstrom.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127978063" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127978063.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127978063" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">White dress</a><br />lanebryant.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=123076197" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/123076197.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=123076197" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tight</a><br />lanebryant.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=120901735" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/120901735.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=120901735" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Forever 21 black booties</a><br />forever21.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>For days when you want to add a pop of color into your office look, look no further than the patterned dress! It’s a great way to make a statement in a sea of blacks and grays, and it’s easy to throw on when you don’t feel like coming up with an outfit for the day.</p>
<p>“A patterned dress can be fun and young, and V-necks in particular are flattering,” Hurley says. “Then, make a solid-color blazer be the piece that will create the ‘V’ that will be flattering to curvy shapes.”</p>
<p>The fashion-forward print and pop of blue on this printed sheath dress is chic and statement-making, but the three-quarter-length sleeves and longer length make it great for work. The mixed prints of this Eloquii dress create a defined waist. Add black tights, a cute blazer and your favorite high-heel ankle booties to your printed dress pick. You’ll be the most stylish girl at the office!</p>
<p><strong>5. Go-to pants</strong></p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/go-to_pants/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588787" target="_blank"><img alt="Go-To Pants" border="0" height="414" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/mefSp2VTMG98spXSeiSOw/cid/147588787/id/pujS7X2m5BGp0lOIq2AFrA/size/c620x414.jpg" title="Go-To Pants" width="620" /></a></div>
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<p>
</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/go-to_pants/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147588787" target="_blank">Go-To Pants</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/short_trousers/shop?query=short+trousers" target="_blank">short trousers</a></small></div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127999816" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127999816.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127999816" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Short trousers</a><br />eloquii.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127999891" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/127999891.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=127999891" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lipstick boutique</a><br />asos.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124386051" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/124386051.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124386051" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Missguided print pants</a><br />missguidedus.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124579562" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/124579562.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124579562" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zara heels &amp; pumps</a><br />zara.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>Pants for the office doesn’t have to mean a boring, gray pantsuit! A great alternative? Straight-leg tailored pants that go with every top in your closet. Basic black is great to have on hand, but Hurley also suggests wearing lighter-colored pants with lighter tops to balance your silhouette.</p>
<p>“A lot of stores will sell darker-colored pants, and if you put a lighter top next to that dark-colored pant, you can end up creating an ice-cream-cone shape, when what you’re trying to do is look as much like a hourglass figure as possible,” Hurley says.</p>
<p>For basic black, we love the satin pockets on this tailored pant from ASOS, which add a stylish touch. For a lighter look, camel-colored pants are a great option. Want to go for a print to draw some attention to your legs? Try a pair of dogtooth-print trousers. Bonus: All of these pants match with your go-to blazer! Wear these pants with your favorite pair of pumps for a silhouette that will make your legs look <em>killer</em>.</p>
<p><strong>6. A feminine blouse</strong><br /> </p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/feminine_blouse/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147589182" target="_blank"><img alt="A Feminine Blouse" border="0" height="361" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/NpnsXsjHHE2zjC8phXC7A/cid/147589182/id/nq-uin6m5BGxNxmp7EzHKw/size/c620x361.jpg" title="A Feminine Blouse" width="620" /></a></div>
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<p>
</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/feminine_blouse/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147589182" target="_blank">A Feminine Blouse</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/white_long_sleeve_top/shop?query=white+long+sleeve+top" target="_blank">white long sleeve top</a></small></div>
<div style="width:620px;margin:0 auto">
<div style="padding-top:16px">
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=94159112" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/94159112.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=94159112" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Black button shirt</a><br />modcloth.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128002294" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/128002294.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128002294" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">H M white long sleeve top</a><br />$30 - hm.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=123751496" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/123751496.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=123751496" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Forever 21 women plus size top</a><br />forever21.com</small><br /> </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128002627" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/128002627.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=128002627" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pocket jacket</a><br />lanebryant.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>For days when you want to add a girly touch to your office look, a floaty, feminine blouse is the perfect piece. Since it can easily be worn with a gray or black blazer and pencil skirt or pants, you can go all out with the pattern and colors. We like the look of a classic collared button-down shape, like this leaf-print blouse from Forever 21, layered under a chic jacket, which brings in the flowy look at the waist and keeps it from swallowing up your curvy shape. Other fun patterns to try? Snake print and polka dots are both cute and fun while still being conservative enough for the office.</p>
<p><strong>7. A flared midi skirt</strong></p>
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<div style="position:relative;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/flared_mini_skirt/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147590147" target="_blank"><img alt="A Flared Mini Skirt" border="0" height="393" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/t8qAMXQBldZspl1qFEm5w/cid/147590147/id/2lNm9X_m5BGn9qIlZFZllw/size/c620x393.jpg" title="A Flared Mini Skirt" width="620" /></a></div>
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<p>
</p><div style="text-align:center"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/flared_mini_skirt/set?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=147590147" target="_blank">A Flared Mini Skirt</a> by <a href="http://hercampus.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste" target="_blank">hercampus</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/midi_skirt/shop?query=midi+skirt" target="_blank">midi skirt</a></small></div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=116597523" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/116597523.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=116597523" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panel shirt</a><br />modcloth.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=121268911" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/121268911.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=121268911" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Midi skirt</a><br />eloquii.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124322791" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/124322791.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=124322791" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bea Dot long floral maxi skirt</a><br />modcloth.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=88666462" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img align="left" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/88666462.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" width="50" /></a></small></p>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11231924&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=88666462" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barneys New York black lace-up boots</a><br />barneys.com</small><br /> </div>
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<p>The <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/style/7-chic-ways-rock-midi-skirt">midi skirt trend</a> has been going strong for some time now, so why not incorporate it into your work wardrobe? The longer length makes it a great choice for the office, but the flared shape makes your waist look super tiny! Make a statement in a bright, fun hue like this green scuba midi skirt from Eloquii or in a spring-ready floral-print skirt. It looks super chic with ankle boots and a crisp white button-down to let the skirt stand out.</p>
<p><a href="http://thecurvyfashionista.com/2012/01/poised-polished-professional-and-plus-size-plus-size-wear-to-work-tips/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="480" width="720" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/hcxo_hero_standard/public/2015/01/27/Downloads141.jpg?itok=g8kwbnNJ" /></a><br />Above all, it’s important to wear what makes you feel comfortable at work. When you feel great, you’ll look great, which will give you the confidence to accomplish amazing things in your career.<br /> </p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/7-perfect-office-ready-pieces-curvy-girlsWed, 28 Jan 2015 09:00:00 ESTHer Campus CareerCaroline PirozzoloHow She Got There: Molly Ford, Founder of Smart, Pretty &amp; Awkwardhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-molly-ford-founder-smart-pretty-awkward
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Molly Ford<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Marketing Manager at Hearst Corporation and founder of <a href="http://smartprettyandawkward.com">Smart, Pretty &amp; Awkward</a><br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>B.S. in Finance and Entrepreneurship/Northeastern University and M.S. in International Marketing Management/Boston University<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.smartprettyandawkward.com">www.smartprettyandawkward.com</a><strong> </strong><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="http://www.twitter.com/itsmollyford">@itsmollyford</a></p>
<p><a href="http://smartprettyandawkward.com/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="930" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/24/HSGT-Molly%20Ford-Article%20Image.jpeg?itok=4534mxZZ" /></a></p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>Tell us about your current job.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Molly Ford: </strong>My professional career is centered on marketing and writing with a heavy digital influence.</p>
<p>Marketing-wise, I’m a marketing manager in the entertainment division of Hearst Corporation. I focus on the digital marketing, partnerships, PR and licensing opportunities around Hearst’s entertainment talent and properties.</p>
<p>Writing-wise, I blog at Smart, Pretty &amp; Awkward, a website that gives three pieces of advice for each post: how to be smarter, how to be prettier, and how to be (less) awkward. I also have <a href="http://parade.com/member/mollyford/">a column in <em>Parade </em>magazine</a> and write a book recommendations print column, which appears in about 70 newspapers across the U.S.</p>
<p>Marketing and writing have a lot of overlaps; it’s great to be able to write to sell ideas, and it’s good to be able to market your writing. I also really love that both of my roles are digital-based, as I absolutely love the online world.</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>The Internet! I think it’s so fascinating to have the connections and opportunities that come from the web, whether it’s connecting fans to brands they love or starting a blog—anyone with an Internet connection can have the chance to share their ideas directly with an audience with no middle-man. <br /><strong> <br />What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>I moved to New York City two weeks after college graduation, and my first job when I arrived was a summer internship where I wrote for a nonprofit’s blog and did other random admin things for them (think: once I had to go pick up a fog machine at a party supply story way, way, way deep into Queens). For living arrangements, I subletted an apartment with four other girls for the summer.</p>
<p>My thinking was that if I didn’t have a full-time job by the end of the summer, I’d have to leave the city, which was pretty much the last thing I wanted to do. So I was very motivated and applied like crazy to entry-level marketing jobs. In the middle of July, about a month after moving here, I was offered a job at a start-up marketing agency working on building and managing marketing teams for clients with a big focus on digital pitching and outreach. (Read: lots of cold emailing and cold calling.)</p>
<p>I got the job by applying to it on Craigslist (yes, really). The office was in the middle of Times Square and I loved it—I could even walk to work from my sublet, which I ended up extending for another two years, which was great because I was terrible at taking the subway! I also made some really close friends from that time in my life—it’s easy to bond when you are being hung up on constantly during cold calling and sharing one shower with many other girls.</p>
<p>I stayed for about a year in that first job before switching over to a larger e-commerce firm, still in a marketing role.</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>How important it is to have a LinkedIn account! I should have started one earlier than I did, which wasn’t until my second job. Now I love LinkedIn and recommend to everyone to join while still in college so you can make connections early in your career.</p>
<p><strong>Smart, Pretty &amp; Awkward is an absolutely amazing site! What’s your number one tip for young women hoping to start a blog?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>Thank you! My number one tip for starting a blog is the “three month rule.” When you start blogging, for three months don’t tell anyone. The benefit to you is that a cone of privacy allows you to refine your topic, writing and site layout, but most importantly it allows you time to decide whether or not you really like blogging without worrying about what readers think.</p>
<p>The benefit to readers of waiting three months is that once you start promoting your site, new readers have a whole backlog of posts to read. No one falls in love with a blog from only reading one or two posts – you fall in love when you find a blog and can read 50 or 60 entries at once. Waiting to promote means you get privacy while you refine your blog, and your readers can fall in love with your writing more easily when you do start promoting.</p>
<p><strong>You wear so many different hats on a daily basis, like being a full-time marketing professional, running your blog, writing for <em>Parade</em> Magazine and sitting as co-chair of the organizing committee for the 40 Women to Watch Over 40 awards. How do you manage your time, and what lessons in terms of productivity have you learned along the way?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>Well I am still learning everyday how to be more productive, but probably my best advice is to identify time sucks and skip them. Common time sucks are television (try to limit the shows you get invested in) and not being firm with boundaries on your social life. If you don’t want to go to an event, just say not this time. Or if you don’t want to grab drinks with a potential business partner, ask to do a phone call instead.</p>
<p>My other piece of advice is to not write things on your to-do list that take under two minutes—just do them. If it takes 15 seconds to write something on your to-do list and 120 seconds to do it, then just do it!</p>
<p>Oh, and one more piece of advice—the faster you respond to an email, the shorter the response can be. If you respond within 20 minutes with “Looks great, thank you so much!” people will love that you are so responsive. If you respond 5 days later with “Looks great, thank you so much!” people will think you’re a jerk for taking so long to respond. The faster your respond, the better you’ll look and the shorter your response can be!</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>It was pretty special to me to be <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/celiashatzman/2014/10/21/11-beauty-and-fashion-tips-for-succeeding-at-work/">featured in Forbes</a>.<br /><strong> <br />What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>I would not hire someone to work in digital marketing or anything writing-based if they didn’t have a website, blog or other web property of their own. Knowing how to create content for the web, build an audience (even if the audience is small—it just needs to be something they have practice with) and leverage social media is a required skill for marketers and writers going forward.<br /><strong> <br />What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MF: </strong>If you want to live in New York City, move to New York City. I really think things happen here that don’t happen anywhere else. So if you get bitten by the New York bug, embrace it and do it. Of course, this same advice can be repeated for anything you desire—it’s always, always, always better to have tried and failed than to spend the rest of your life wondering about trying. </p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-molly-ford-founder-smart-pretty-awkwardMon, 26 Jan 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Work-Study Jobhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/7-ways-make-most-your-work-study-job
<p>If you need a little extra money to get yourself through college, a work-study job is a great way to do so. The <a href="http://www2.ed.gov/programs/fws/index.html">Federal Work-Study program</a><strong> </strong>helps students earn some extra cash towards their tuition, textbooks and more through working at their school part time. In a world where unpaid internships have become the norm, it can sometimes feel like your job at the library is holding you back from your career—but it doesn’t have to! We talked to career experts about the best ways make the most of your work-study job.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="390" id="media_crop_6005168235296" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/25/1431130_82873643.jpg?itok=IgYpfoak" /></p>
<p><strong>1. Appreciate the positives</strong></p>
<p>Even if your work-study job isn’t necessarily your dream job, think about the fact that someone has hired you and is investing money in you. Your work may not be super exciting, but someone is willing to pay you for it, and that’s not something many interns can say. Don’t take for granted the fact that someone is giving you money so you can gain work experience!</p>
<p>Another huge benefit of a work-study job is that it’s usually way easier to fit into your busy schedule than an internship. “Most students who work on campus can fit hours in between classes and do not need to have a large block of time to fit in 10 hours [for an internship] during the week,” says Won Kang, the senior associate director for career development at Barnard College. “It can be more difficult with internships depending on where the internships are located.”</p>
<p>Since your work-study job is most likely on or near campus, it will be way easier for you to schedule shifts between classes, and you don’t have to worry about the time and money that you would lose commuting to an internship.</p>
<p><strong>2. Develop your skills</strong></p>
<p>If you think your responsibilities at your work-study job are meaningless and won’t get you anywhere, think again. <a href="https://twitter.com/reynagobel">Reyna Gobel</a>, a student loan and career expert and author of <em>CliffsNotes Graduation Debt: How to Manage Student Loans and Live Your Life</em>, says that students with work-study jobs benefit because employers “want to give them tasks that are worth paying them to complete.” People aren’t just handing you money for doing a useless job—whatever you’re doing is worth the money you earn. Your experiences there are valuable!</p>
<p>Kang says “the main objective should be to get the most out of the opportunity that you have been given. Once assigned tasks are completed, make sure to request more work and figure out how best to serve the department.” Take advantage of this chance to learn about the workplace and prove yourself as a valuable employee, no matter what job you have. Through your work-study job, you can learn important workplace skills, such as organization and people skills, that will help you in the real world.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="462" id="media_crop_2756222018392" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/25/1068985_40440586.jpg?itok=srpXXtvU" /></p>
<p><strong>3. Make it work for future job applications</strong></p>
<p>Even if your work-study job is totally irrelevant to what you really want to do after graduation, you can always <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-make-your-extracurriculars-sound-best-your-resume">make it work</a><strong> </strong>when you apply for the job of your dreams. There’s always a way to make your previous experiences applicable to the job you want.</p>
<p>“Always base resumes on the individual job you’re applying for,” Gobel says. “Look at the job description and then see which skills match what’s needed.” Maybe you worked out a new filing system while working in your school’s admissions office. That kind of innovation and organization will be desirable to tons of employers!</p>
<p>Kang says, “It is important to highlight the skills developed at your work with detailed information with statistics and accomplishments.” You should be <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-tailor-your-cover-letter-resume-different-positions">customizing your resume</a><strong> </strong>for different jobs anyway, so take a look at your work-study experience from different perspectives to figure out how what you did can apply to different jobs. Don’t be afraid to show off your accomplishments from your work-study job; just find the best way to make them relevant to what you’re applying for.</p>
<p><strong>4. Make it relevant</strong></p>
<p>Your work-study job can be just as applicable to your desired career as an internship. “Traditionally, [a] work-study is tied to specific coursework or major requirements,” Gobel says. This gives you a huge advantage over having an unpaid internship, because while unpaid interns may be working their way along their career path, they aren’t getting paid for it.</p>
<p>If you have a work-study job all throughout college that’s relevant to your major, you can work your way to a job you might really want after graduation. You may not have a ton of options when it comes to where you work, but talk to your career center about how to get a work-study job most suited to your future career goals.</p>
<p>If you can’t get a completely relevant work-study job, don’t be discouraged. Any job is another great addition to your resume; it will demonstrate your work ethic and skills and help fill in gaps between other jobs and internships. Whatever kind of job you have, highlight all of your most relevant duties in your resume so potential employers can see that you’ve been working towards a job in that field</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" id="media_crop_5364828751403" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/25/1275249_86778210.jpg?itok=MkKBJkPv" /></p>
<p><strong>5. Don’t waste your time</strong></p>
<p>Unfortunately, some work-study jobs just require that you sit behind a desk for hours at a time. However, that doesn’t mean that the time you spend at work should be completely wasted!</p>
<p>Emily, a recent graduate of Barnard College, had a work-study job at her school’s library help desk. “Most of my job involved sitting behind a desk waiting to answer questions or give directions, so I would bring my books along,” she says.</p>
<p>Bringing your homework will help you boost your productivity and make your time at work pass by faster. Just be sure you don’t completely ignore your job; check with your boss to see if there’s anything you can help with before settling into a nice, long study session!</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="394" id="media_crop_4842170529220" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/25/people-networking2.jpg?itok=WTjfkzAE" /></p>
<p><strong>6. Make connections</strong></p>
<p>A work-study job doesn’t just boost your resume; it expands your network, too.</p>
<p>“Getting a job after college is about both connections and experience,” Gobel says. Who you know can be just as important as your skills and knowledge when it comes to a job hunt. You’ll be able to ask your manager for a reference, and you never know who your coworkers will know or what they may do with their own careers one day.</p>
<p>So how do you make strong connections at your work-study job? Gobel says to really get to know the people you work with. Everyone from <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/keeping-touch-your-former-boss-10-simple-rules">your boss</a> to other students can be great career connections to have in the future. Be sure to connect with all your coworkers on <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-ways-use-linkedin-get-job">LinkedIn</a> so you can stay in touch. Make close connections now and you’ll have them long into the future!</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" height="827" id="media_crop_5745567199185" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/25/784496_95810350.jpg?itok=f7mSm34I" /></p>
<p><strong>7. Snag a job post-graduation</strong></p>
<p>If you’re graduating soon and starting to panic about your post-grad plans, talk to your boss at your work-study job.</p>
<p>“Always ask about open positions a couple of months before graduation,” Gobel says.</p>
<p>If your work-study job is at a nonprofit or even on campus, there may be room for you to move up after graduation. You have experience doing whatever your work-study job is, so you’re more qualified to continue working for the organization. Even if it isn’t the job you’ve always dreamed of, staying on after you graduate will show future employers that you’re dedicated to your work, and it will give you a little more time to figure things out.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>No matter what you’re doing, your work-study job can be a valuable experience to boost your career in the right direction. Take advantage of it, collegiettes!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/7-ways-make-most-your-work-study-jobSun, 25 Jan 2015 14:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerChristina MadsenNot-so-Friendly Career Competition: How to Dealhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/not-so-friendly-career-competition-how-deal
<p>When your best friend lands her dream internship, it’s your job be there with a smile, a high five and celebratory night on the town. But sharing your BFF’s happiness can feel almost impossible when her dream internship was <em>your</em> dream internship, too.</p>
<p>If you and a close friend are trying to get into the same career field, it’s likely at some point one of you will seem more successful (or even just luckier) than the other. When this happens, that green-eyed monster, <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/life/family-friends/may-best-woman-win-how-competition-can-hurt-friendships">envy</a>,<strong> </strong>can drain the life from an otherwise amazing friendship.</p>
<p>Feel like this scenario describes your friendship a little too well? Here are some steps you can take to deal with career competition before it gets out of control.</p>
<p><strong>If you’re jealous…</strong></p>
<p><u>Fake it till you make it</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/camisphotography/5995229070/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="348" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/5995229070_69627dd9aa_b.jpg?itok=CxBe4LTO" /></a></p>
<p>It totally sucks to be the one feeling envious. It’s a completely normal but nasty emotion to have, and it can be hard to shake off. In this case, the advice “fake it till you make it” might sound cynical, but it works. Whether you’re trying to <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/health/mental-health/how-be-more-outgoing-your-go-guide-putting-yourself-out-there">boost your confidence</a><strong> </strong>or feel sincerely happy for your friend, pretending can be the first step toward the real thing.</p>
<p>Emily Miethner is the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.findspark.com/">FindSpark</a><b>, </b>a networking and career development group for students and recent graduates. According to Miethner, faking congratulations can be a great way to become a better friend and deal with competition.</p>
<p>“I think one of the greatest things you can do for yourself is being in the mindset of being happy for other people,” Miethner says. “It’s like playing a sport—practice makes perfect. Start with just complimenting people.” Then you can work your way up to the real, heartfelt dance-party celebrations.</p>
<p><u>Stop comparing yourself to your friends</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/sodaniechea/7548029082/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/7548029082_94a0bd03b9_b.jpg?itok=XVskGqr5" /></a></p>
<p>Easier said than done, right? Still, this is an important part of getting some peace of mind as you vie for internships and jobs that thousands of other qualified students are trying to get.</p>
<p>Being able to stop comparing yourself to others is largely about changing the way you think about your success as well as others’. Miethner says that it’s best to think of your success in its own world. No one else’s success is taking away from the success you’ve had or the success you’re bound to have in the future. In fact, if you’re surrounded by successful people, you should actually feel good about yourself!</p>
<p>“I totally believe that you are the average of the people you spend your time with,” Miethner says. “If your friends are accomplishing great things, then you’re surrounding yourself with great people.”</p>
<p><u>Channel your envy into productivity</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/spirit-fire/6426757753/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="282" width="425" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/6426757753_3823a49422_o.jpg?itok=IfomV1f3" /></a></p>
<p>If you’re feeling inferior or envious, try working on yourself instead of focusing on your friends.</p>
<p>Hunter College junior Alexa Amato says that competition with one of her friends helped her get motivated to work on her own career goals.</p>
<p>“My friend got an internship at a really big news corporation, and I couldn't help but almost rage with jealousy,” Alexa says. “I actually feel like this caused a riff in our relationship because she tended to brag a lot, and it made it so difficult for me to congratulate her in her endeavors even though I really wanted to be supportive.”</p>
<p>Eventually, Alexa realized she shouldn’t spend her energy holding a grudge against a friend, and she landed an internship of her own. “I channeled that negative energy and turned it into motivation,” Alexa says. “And, dare I say, maybe some healthy competition is what I need!”</p>
<p>According to Miethner, taking small, productive steps like updating your resume, applying for positions and doing <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/your-complete-guide-informational-interviews">informational interviews</a> can help alleviate those feelings of envy.</p>
<p>“I think action is the best way to get motivated and feel better about yourself,” Miethner says. “You can’t judge yourself by how many interviews you get. There are thousands of people applying for each job.”</p>
<p>Sometimes even the most qualified applicants get overlooked. What matters most is that you’re taking steps forward!</p>
<p><u>Network with your friends</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/cernicalo-e/5712512722/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/5712512722_6e04b28c34_b.jpg?itok=N477wiN7" /></a></p>
<p>Having friends interested in the same field as you might be stressing you out right now, but in the long run, it could help you with your career.</p>
<p>Collegiette Megan* says that although she experienced some career competition with a friend, she eventually realized that having a talented friend in her field could be a great thing for down the road.</p>
<p>“I really struggled with [envy] since she had a lot of connections [in public relations],” Megan says. “I felt that maybe I wasn't good enough to go into PR. Now, years later, I feel like she could be a great contact one day. If we both end up going into PR, I feel like we will work well together and might even manage similar clients.”</p>
<p>You and your friend can share tips, practice interviewing each other and keep each other posted on great opportunities. That means when your friend succeeds, so do you (and vice versa!).</p>
<p><strong>If she’s jealous…</strong></p>
<p><u>Keep your bragging to a minimum</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/125303894@N06/14365669046/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/14365669046_06540bbbff_b.jpg?itok=VW6h3L6B" /></a></p>
<p>So we’ve gone over what you can do if <em>you’re</em> feeling envious of your friend, but what if you have a friend who’s making things competitive?</p>
<p>Of course, it’s not your job to make sure your success isn’t bugging anyone else. But if competition is straining your friendship, you can make an effort to not to rub your accomplishments in your BFF’s face.</p>
<p>That means that you should be honest if you truly love your new job. But if your friend admits to having difficulty finding a good internship, don’t immediately respond by talking about how excited you are for yours.</p>
<p>Once you’ve achieved your goal, try not to brag, gloat or give too much unasked-for advice. Be supportive, and your friend will likely support you in return!</p>
<p><u>Don’t get wrapped up in the drama of competition</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/theresedreams/6608624221/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="478" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/6608624221_69d57ca637_b.jpg?itok=T4DtxI2s" /></a></p>
<p>Sometimes career competition can spin out of control without you realizing it. That’s what happened to Drexel University student Sara* when a peer found out that she had applied to the same internship.</p>
<p>“Once she got to know that I applied to the same position, she told the employers that I lied on my resume!” Sara says. “I found out because one of my previous employers called me and told me that my potential employer thought I never worked there.”</p>
<p>Sara called her potential employer, cleared up the mess and reported the event to her adviser. Sara recommends taking the higher ground in these kinds of situations.</p>
<p>“Be calm and involve the university if anything this serious happens,” Sara says. “Don't try to be confrontational.”</p>
<p>Sara’s experience is an extreme case, but it’s important to remember that not everyone plays fair. If you feel uncomfortable sharing your career plans and aspirations with anyone, just don’t share them.</p>
<p>It’s not a bad idea to save talk of your successes, failures and aspirations for the people closest to you. And if things do get dramatic, keep a level head and remove yourself from the situation, even if that means talking to a career adviser.</p>
<p><u>Surround yourself with uplifting people</u></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/blondinrikard/14600086666/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="434" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/14600086666_b8ae16175a_b_0.jpg?itok=CV-3IMav" /></a></p>
<p>Ultimately, when you get the news that you’ve just landed your dream job, no one can really blame you if you tell people about it. You’re excited and hopeful, and that’s totally okay. It’s not your responsibility to temper your excitement or keep others from playing dirty.</p>
<p>If you have a friend who doesn’t even make an effort to be happy for you or tries to belittle your accomplishments, you probably have a <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/health/mental-health/frenemies-when-friendships-become-toxic-and-how-deal">toxic friendship</a>. When that’s the case, it’s probably best to put some space between you and your competitive friend.</p>
<p>“If it’s no longer bearable to spend time with them, sometimes that’s the way life is,” Miethner says. “Be polite and cordial, but don’t hang out with them as much. Spend time with people you enjoy spending time with.”</p>
<p>Surround yourself with people who uplift you and will cheer you along instead. You might lose one so-so friendship, but you’ll gain deeper relationships in return. That way, your career development (as well as your mental health) will be a lot better off!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/kronny/15158952527/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="412" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/22/15158952527_c4c184b4ee_b.jpg?itok=oVpLaUBR" /></a></p>
<p>Whether you’re struggling with envy or you have a friend who is, as long as you’re both moving forward and thinking positively, you’ll be okay. Your success is right around the corner, and you both should be thankful to have fantastic, ambitious friends to celebrate it with!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>*Names have been changed.</em></p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/jobs-internships/not-so-friendly-career-competition-how-dealFri, 23 Jan 2015 19:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKathryn Williams8 Ways to Save Money for Spring Breakhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/money/8-ways-save-money-spring-break
<p>The best cure for the midwinter blues is looking forward to the next fun thing on the horizon, and one of <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/life/campus-living/14-things-be-grateful-college">the greatest parts of college</a> is planning for spring break! Although it’s only a month into the semester and your days of fun in the sun may seem far away, that glorious week off will come sooner than you expect. If you’re planning on traveling during spring break this year, it’s a good idea to plan ahead so that you have extra spending money. Check out our list of ways that you can cut your spending this winter so that you have plenty of cash come March.</p>
<p><strong>1. Cut out unnecessary spending </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.caffeineinformer.com/the-complete-guide-to-starbucks-caffeine"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="276" id="media_crop_7321287565196" width="460" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/starbucks-coffee_0.jpg?itok=UU812xu3" /></a></p>
<p>The key to saving money is to not waste money on things that you don’t really need!</p>
<p>“It’s important to understand what your true needs are, and that what you want isn’t necessarily what you need,” says Jeffrey Goodman, first vice president of investments for the financial services company Raymond James &amp; Associates. While your twice-weekly (or even daily) Starbucks drinks can <em>feel</em> like a necessity, they really aren’t. Try to limit your coffee runs to once a week, or even better, switch to making your own coffee at home before you run to class.</p>
<p>Let’s say that you get your Starbucks fix twice a week. At approximately $4 per drink, you’d save $8 a week, which adds up to $48 saved by March!</p>
<p>Another unnecessary expense that could get in the way of your saving is that inevitable trip to the campus café for a quick bite to eat between classes. Instead of falling into that snack trap, plan ahead and bring something with you to snack on, like nuts, a granola bar or fruit.</p>
<p>You could also consider investing in a <a href="http://www.waterbobble.com/">bobble</a>, a filtered water bottle that you can refill over and over, instead of constantly shelling out money for bottled water. bobbles are great for the environment, too; using one bobble for two months equates to using 300 single-use water bottles!</p>
<p><strong>2. Get a part-time job</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.armstrong.edu/Departments/student_employment_center/student_jobs_welcome"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="250" id="media_crop_1450361020077" width="530" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/student_employement_welcome.jpg?itok=YoEeXBCq" /></a></p>
<p>Getting a job isn’t just good for <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/best-resume-ever-8-steps-write-it">bulking up your resume</a>; it can also help you put some extra money in your pocket during the semester. Do some research to find out if your university is offering any on-campus, part-time student jobs, like in the student union, in the library or at the campus bookstore, and check out the restaurants around campus as well.</p>
<p>Odd jobs here and there such as babysitting can also be a good option. “I asked my sorority sisters for any babysitting families they wanted to ditch for a night or two,” says Kirsten Ballard, a recent graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill. If you work a part-time job that pays $10 an hour for 10 hours a week, you could earn an extra $600 by March!</p>
<p><strong>3. Keep your money out of sight </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.chargebee.com/moved-fees-understanding-credit-card-processing-merchant-perspective/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="338" id="media_crop_5247333546870" width="507" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/Credit-Card-Padlocked.jpg?itok=y0RPI0Sa" /></a> You’re being careful with your money and watching what you spend, when all of a sudden you come across a pair of heels that you just can’t resist—and your credit card is within your reach. We know it can be incredibly hard to make good financial decisions when it’s so easy to whip out a card to pay for a meal or online shop. We suggest keeping your card out of sight so that you won’t be tempted and only withdrawing enough cash for what you need for the week or month.</p>
<p>“I took my credit cards out of my wallet and just get cash out once a week for gas and necessities,” Kirsten says.</p>
<p>If you do have extra cash on hand, make sure to keep it in a safe or somewhere it can’t easily be found. </p>
<p>Beverly Harzog, author of <em>Confessions of a Credit Junkie: Everything You Need to Know to Avoid the Mistakes I Made</em>, says it’s important to keep track of anything you buy with your card and limit how much you charge to it.</p>
<p>“…If you have credit cards, be sure you don't charge more than you can pay off when the bill comes in the next month,” she says. “This is where having a budget and tracking your spending can help you stay out of credit card debt. Be very diligent about this, because you don't want to graduate from school with both student loan debt and credit card debt.”</p>
<p><strong>4. Stick to your budget </strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.mint.com/blog/planning/american-family-budget-the-wake-up-call-1113/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="320" id="media_crop_9508122487490" width="554" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/written-budget_0.jpg?itok=kRIKoWMi" /></a></p>
<p>When you have a specific event to save up for, it’s important to create a realistic budget and stick to it. While this isn’t the easiest thing to do in the expensive world of college, Goodman says “it’s important to have discipline and self-control when it comes to your budget.” Plan your week in advance and think about how much money you’ll need for the necessities, like snacks, groceries and gas (while allotting some of your funds for the fun stuff).</p>
<p>Learning to effectively budget now is a skill that will be beneficial for the rest of your life. The sooner you know how to handle money, the better! For more budgeting tips, check out our article on <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/how-make-your-college-budget-5-easy-steps">how to make your college budget</a>.</p>
<p><strong>5. Download apps to help you stay on track </strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.mint.com/how-it-works/anywhere/ipad/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="271" id="media_crop_9545755343467" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/ipad_hero.png?itok=YXty5-uf" /></a></p>
<p>Harzog suggests “downloading one of the budgeting apps so that you can keep track of your spending via your smartphone.” For example, the free <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mint-personal-finance/id300238550?mt=8">Mint</a> app can help you stay on top of your expenses by connecting directly to your bank account and tracking your transactions. The app even lets you set goals for yourself! All you have to do is set a date for your spring break trip and enter how much money you’ll need by that time, and Mint will do the rest.</p>
<p>“There are several similar budgeting apps on the market, so do a little research and find the one that you’re comfortable with,” Harzog says.</p>
<p><strong>6. Cook your own meals </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://chefmom.sheknows.com/articles/817063/How-to-organize-a-fix-and-freeze-meal-swap-with-your-friends"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="333" id="media_crop_5786737769215" width="500" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/friends-cooking-together.jpg?itok=UNzTWcFB" /></a></p>
<p>Cooking for yourself means improving your culinary skills, eating healthier and, of course, saving money. Eating out can be extremely expensive, especially if you go to college in a big city, and those weekly dinners out can quickly add up.</p>
<p>One of the easiest ways to save money is to make meals yourself in your dorm or apartment kitchen. “My roommates and I would sometimes cook together instead of going out to eat,” says Becky McColl, a recent graduate of the University of Delaware. “It's a lot cheaper than going out, so it's a great way to save money, and cooking together is a lot of fun!”</p>
<p>If you live with roommates, you could have one day a week where one person makes a meal for everyone else, or have fun dinner themes, like Mexican night! </p>
<p>If you do go out, try to limit yourself to only eating out every other week, and be sure to check out websites like <a href="https://www.livingsocial.com/">LivingSocial</a> and <a href="http://www.groupon.com/">Groupon</a> first for coupons. Kirsten suggests ordering water instead of soda, which will also help you stick to your budget. Since restaurant portions are often hefty, save and bring home half of your food so that you have a free meal the next day.</p>
<p><strong>7. Take advantage of your student ID </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.gnomonschool.com/blog/education-2/3-ways-to-get-huge-student-discounts-as-a-visual-effects-student"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="305" id="media_crop_8708522274780" width="480" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/student_id.jpg?itok=phP5x-zd" /></a></p>
<p>Make the most of your student ID and use it at local businesses that offer student discounts or for free admission to museums and local events.</p>
<p>“When you do go off campus for entertainment, take advantage of your student discount whenever possible,” Harzog says. “And don't be afraid to ask the manager of a restaurant or a store if they'd consider giving you a student discount.”</p>
<p><strong>8. Use your friends as motivation </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.meetmycollege.com/how-to-make-friends-in-college/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="450" id="media_crop_6659049337846" width="600" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2014/01/17/CI-Dormify_dorm-room-teens-talking-on-sofa_s4x3_lg-600x450.jpg?itok=DscHACXP" /></a><strong> </strong></p>
<p>There’s power in numbers, which means that you’ll have an easier time motivating yourself to restrict your spending when the people around you are doing the same thing! If you and a group of friends are planning a spring break trip together, you can motivate each other to make decisions that will result in more money in your wallet (and less post-spending regret).</p>
<p>“The environment you’re in can make a difference,” Goodman says. “Spending time with people who have common interests and goals will help you stay on track.”</p>
<p>Tape photos of beaches and palm trees all over your dorm room, create a “Spring Break Fund” jar that you and your friends can put extra change into over the course of the semester or even print out a Ryan Gosling “Hey Girl, Save Your Money” meme for extra motivation—whatever it takes! When you do go out with friends, plan ahead and make sure that you both can afford it so that you don’t end up footing the bill for a friend and going over your budget.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Saving money can be easy as long as you commit and make a conscious effort to do so every day. By creating a budget, limiting extra spending and looking for ways to have fun for free, you’ll be on your way to growing your spring break fund in no time!</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/money/8-ways-save-money-spring-breakThu, 22 Jan 2015 00:00:02 ESTHer Campus CareerKelsey PomeroyA Shy Girl’s Guide to Networkinghttp://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/shy-girl-s-guide-networking
<p>In today’s job market, the saying often goes, “it’s not what you know, it’s <em>who</em> you know.” Beyond a resume and <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/what-not-say-cover-letter">cover letter</a>, networking is a useful skill that can greatly affect your job search. According to <a href="http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-09-29/jobs/sns-201304171800--tms--careersntp--h-a20130421-20130421_1_job-ad-new-survey-biology">a study by The Adler Group</a>, 58 percent of candidates looking for jobs landed a position through an internal move or networking. Essentially, networking is all about talking to people.</p>
<p>Even if you’re the most outgoing person in the world, networking with potential employers and professional connections can be intimidating. And if you’re more introverted, networking might seem like your worst nightmare. But have no fear, reserved collegiettes! HC asked the experts and came up with networking tips specially tailored to those of us on the shy side.</p>
<p><strong>Send a LinkedIn InMail</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.text100.com/hypertext/2014/10/webinars-linkedin-conferences/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="453" width="610" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/shutterstock_94209826.jpg?itok=V5iYzrZD" /></a></p>
<p>One great networking tool for all collegiettes is LinkedIn. Beyond being able to create a <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-linkedin-tools-you-need-know-about">professional profile and search for job opportunities</a><b>,</b> you can also expand your digital social network. This is a particularly great first step for shy collegiettes to get their feet wet in the networking world because it’s all online.</p>
<p>According to Lesley Mitler, president of <a href="http://www.prioritycandidates.com">Priority Candidates</a>,<strong> </strong>a career-coaching service for college students and recent grads, learning how to use LinkedIn can help collegiettes network better overall. “Connect with friends, family, past employers, high school colleagues and professors,” Mitler suggests. “You can even connect with alums through InMail.”</p>
<p>The majority of interactions on LinkedIn are via InMail, the messaging component of the website. For shy collegiettes, you may feel more comfortable initially interacting with alumni or potential employers from your school in the form of a written message. You can introduce yourself, explain your career goals and ask for their advice about a particular field or what they did to find jobs after graduation. This can get the conversation going so if you ever do meet one of these people in person, you’ll have an established connection, which can calm your nerves.</p>
<p>Want to contact an alumnus and don’t know what to say? First, start with a greeting such as, “Hi [alumni name]” and introduce yourself. It can be as simple as this:</p>
<p><em>“I’m a current student at [school] and I came across your profile. I’m graduating in [year] with a major in [blank], and I was wondering if you would be willing to give me some advice on [entering the work world/specifics about an industry/the job search]. I would really appreciate it!”</em></p>
<p>Then, provide your contact information, such as your phone number or an additional email address. Alumni tend to love helping other alumni, so a personal message can help you make those helpful connections!</p>
<p><strong>Practice with friends or family</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.hhs.gov/ash/oah/resources-and-publications/learning/coll-tk/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="282" width="425" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/handshake_1-2-1.jpg?itok=KIzySU_J" /></a></p>
<p>The best way to deal with your networking anxiety is to practice a lot! For shy collegiettes, the idea of small talk can be uncomfortable and awkward. But if you practice with people you’re comfortable with, you’ll feel more confident with strangers.</p>
<p>“Start by speaking with and connecting with people that you already know—family, friends, people you’ve worked with or for and professors,” Mitler says. “It will give you experience with the networking process and hopefully build confidence.”</p>
<p>Your uncle who works for an advertising firm? Ask him what his favorite part of his job is at your next family gathering. Call your cousin who just got a job as an interior designer and ask if you can pick her brain. Or reconnect with that fellow intern from your internship last summer and ask about her future plans. The more you have these kinds of conversations, the better you’ll feel about initiating them in the future.</p>
<p>Beyond family and friends, internship bosses or mentors can be great people to help you practice networking. Erin Crabtree, a senior at Belmont University, says her <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/5-reasons-you-need-mentor">mentor</a> is the source of her networking success.</p>
<p>“I was very introverted when I began my first internship, which required me to network at parties with complete strangers,” Erin says. “[But] I had a fabulous mentor right beside me the whole time who guided me through it and taught me exactly how to connect with people.”</p>
<p>Your boss or mentor definitely has a ton of networking experience, so don’t be afraid to ask him or her questions or get suggestions for how to improve your own networking skills!</p>
<p><strong>Improve your phone skills</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cheltborohomes.org/2014/04/22/calling-from-a-mobile-we-have-a-new-cheaper-0300-number/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/girl-on-mobile-phone.jpg?itok=axvI16u9" /></a></p>
<p>Mitler also encourages shy collegiettes to get comfortable speaking on the phone. “Since many introductions will start with a phone conversation, it is important to be able to communicate clearly and enthusiastically over the phone,” Mitler says. “It’s a skill that many students, particularly those who are more reserved, are not as good at. [Practice] speaking on the phone and get comfortable with that form of communication.”</p>
<p>Veronica Burnett, a senior at Villanova University, says she became more comfortable talking on the phone through her internship. “I used to really hate talking on the phone [with strangers] because I just felt so awkward,” Veronica says. “But my internship required me to interview sources to write web articles, so I kind of had to just do it! I would write notes of questions or important things I know I wanted to say, and after doing it a few times, I became much more comfortable.”</p>
<p>So instead of shooting your mom a text the next time you want to update her on your life, give her a call instead. Make sure you speak slowly and clearly, because these are techniques that can help you if you ever have to tell a potential employer about yourself over the phone. Plus, your mom will appreciate hearing about your day!</p>
<p><strong>Take a public-speaking class</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://articulateant.com/tag/public-speaking-for-women/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="300" width="500" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/500x300womanspeak.jpg?itok=fForarBE" /></a></p>
<p>Most schools offer a public-speaking course, considering it’s an important skill for almost every major. Even some of the most extroverted collegiettes don’t particularly like public speaking, so for those of us who are more introverted, public speaking is our worst nightmare. However, by taking a class, you can learn different techniques to decrease nervousness and effectively convey a message; these are two things that can be applied to networking situations.</p>
<p>Milter highly encourages reserved collegiettes take a public-speaking course to further build confidence. While networking is more one-on-one interaction versus speaking to a large group, applying public-speaking techniques to a networking conversation can keep you calm. Plus, if you can master your fear of speaking in front of a classroom of people, networking with one or two people will seem like a breeze.</p>
<p>“I actually had to take a public-speaking class for my major,” Veronica says. “I wasn’t thrilled to because I get so nervous public speaking, but my professor focused on ways to decrease anxiety in the beginning of a speech [when you’re most nervous]. She even taught us breathing techniques. I got so much better and felt awesome by the end of the semester!”</p>
<p>Check your course catalogue or talk to your academic adviser to find out more about these kinds of classes and when they’re offered. You’ll get over your fear of public speaking before you know it!</p>
<p><strong>Do some research</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.doctorsintraining.com/blog/usmle-step-1-success-starts-with-the-primer-video-series/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="413" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/Plan-prepare-perform.jpg?itok=4MEq3mqx" /></a></p>
<p>So there’s a big career fair or <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/5-people-you-never-thought-network">networking event</a> happening at your school that everyone is going to. While part of you wants to run and completely avoid a room full of strangers, preparing beforehand will make you feel more confident when you get there.</p>
<p>Career fairs or networking events will often publish what companies or employers will be attending, so it’s in your best interest to do some research before going. If you know a little bit about an organization before talking to an employer or recruiter, you’ll feel more confident in starting a conversation.</p>
<p>“Make sure you do your homework beforehand … be aware if there are any jobs posted in their organization that might be a fit for your background, skills or experience,” Mitler says.</p>
<p>By becoming familiar with the company, their values and possible opportunities, you’ll have a basis for conversation and questions. Check out a company’s website or look up them up on LinkedIn. If you know a little bit about them, they’ll be interested in getting to know you!</p>
<p><strong>Come up with a personal statement or elevator pitch</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.womenoffaith.com/2013/04/hello-my-name-is/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="239" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/HelloMyNameIs.jpg?itok=7vR8SCVm" /></a></p>
<p>One of the most basic networking small-talk topics is telling someone about yourself. While this may seem like an easy conversation starter, when put on the spot, you might not know where to start! By thinking about it beforehand, you can avoid that awkward moment when you can only tell the person your name because of nerves.</p>
<p>“Compose <a href="http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/how-perfect-your-elevator-pitch-get-internship">a personal mission statement</a> to articulate what you are about [and] your skills and goals,” Mitler suggests. “It’s far more effective than repeating what they can read on your resume. It is a great way to tell your story.”</p>
<p>Think about what type of job you want, why you want to be in a certain industry or a story from a previous internship or campus club that you think exemplifies you as a potential employee. You have a lot to offer, so never be afraid of sharing that!</p>
<p>In one of her classes, Iris Goldsztajn, a junior at University of California, Los Angeles, found that expressing her interests helped her make a connection. “The professor brought in amazing speakers every week, and I told one of them (a TV show director) that I wanted to write for a magazine, and he immediately [put me in touch with] his friend, a contributor to a big-name magazine,” Iris says. “The only courage I had to employ was to follow up with him after class and send an email reminder. I learned that networking isn’t as daunting as it sounds! It’s actually more natural and organic than you think.”</p>
<p>Also, it’s important to remember that networking is a two-way street, so show some interest in the people you’re talking to! Ask them about themselves, how they got started and their favorite parts about their careers. You can even ask them advice on how you should go about the job search. Prepare a list of these kinds of potential questions to avoid lulls in the conversation; that way, you can feel confident you can keep the conversation going no matter what!</p>
<p><a href="http://millennialmafia.wordpress.com/2012/06/18/10-networking-tactics-that-most-people-screw-up/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="414" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/networking.jpg?itok=1tzvTgEk" /></a></p>
<p>Networking can seem scary to any collegiette looking for a job or internship, particularly for those of us who are not the most outgoing. If you’re more on the reserved side, don’t shy away from networking! Just keep these tips in mind, and you’ll feel confident in your connection-building skills in no time.</p>http://www.hercampus.com/career/career-how-tos/shy-girl-s-guide-networkingTue, 20 Jan 2015 09:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerKasia JaworskiHow She Got There: Sara Alter, Founder of Pretty Please Nail Polishhttp://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-sara-alter-founder-pretty-please-nail-polish
<p><strong>Name: </strong>Sara Alter<br /><strong>Job Title and Description: </strong>Founder &amp; Chief Polish Officer at Pretty Please Nail Polish<br /><strong>College Name/Major: </strong>University of Delaware/Apparel Design<br /><strong>Website: </strong><a href="http://www.prettypleasenailpolish.com">www.prettypleasenailpolish.com</a><br /><strong>Twitter Handle: </strong><a href="https://www.twitter.com/prettypleasegal">@prettypleasegal</a><strong> </strong><br /><strong>Instagram Handle: </strong><a href="http://www.instagram.com/prettypleasegal">@prettypleasegal</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.prettypleasenailpolish.com/"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="540" width="620" src="http://www.hercampus.com/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_embed/public/2015/01/16/HSGT-Sara%20Alter.jpg?itok=7r-S7fzv" /></a><strong> <br />What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sara Alter: </strong>I am the founder and Chief Polish Officer of Pretty Please Nail Polish. With Pretty Please, you pick a nail polish shade you love and name it yourself (yes, YOU name it!). As the head of a small business, my day involves doing many jobs, all at once. In a given day I take on the role of a CEO, an accountant, a customer service rep, a business development strategist and everything in between.</p>
<p>There is no such thing as a typical day. Depending on the time of year (holidays, wedding season, etc.) some days have more focus on outreach (i.e. social media, public relations and marketing) where other days are more focused on behind the scenes work (i.e., picking polish colors, ordering inventory and website maintenance).</p>
<p><strong>What is the best part of your job?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>Being able to put all of my time and effort into a company that I love. When you have a vision and you make it come to life, it doesn’t feel like work. Also, making my own hours (although they are long hours!) is great!<br /><strong> <br />What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>After graduation I got an entry-level marketing and public relations job in Maryland, where I grew up. At the time, I wanted to use my education and interest in fashion to open up a clothing boutique, but I also knew I needed to learn how to promote a brand first. I started by asking family and friends whom they knew in the PR industry. If you can get an introduction, take it!</p>
<p>My parents suggested that I meet with a woman who ran the PR department of a bigger advertising and marketing agency, just to get some advice about the industry and next steps. I reached out to set up a meeting and by the end of our breakfast she agreed to hire me as an entry-level PR assistant. It was a foot in the door and I took it!</p>
<p><strong>What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>If I had to choose one thing (I can’t choose “everything,” right?), I would say I wish I had thought more about the potential for competitor growth in the nail polish industry. When I started Pretty Please, Essie and OPI were the two big names in nail polish. Fast forward 10 months and everyone from pop stars to clothing brands started carrying their own nail polish lines. Even if you are the only business in a particular space today, you can never assume it will stay that way. Competition can turn up overnight and you want to be prepared with a plan so that your brand can stay relevant amidst a growing and changing industry.</p>
<p><strong>Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>My mom. I grew up watching a strong, independent woman, and that made all the difference. She earned two masters degrees, one while working full-time and raising a young child. She worked hard to fulfill her professional goals, showing me by example that anything is possible. When I came up with the idea for Pretty Please, she was the first person to tell me to follow my dream and has supported me in every way since day one. A strong role model, whoever that may be, is a powerful asset. I wouldn’t be the same person without her.<br /><strong> <br />What words of wisdom do you find most valuable</strong>?</p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>I love the quote by Robert Frost, “The best way out is always through.” When challenges arise, your first instinct might be to put it off, place blame or avoid the situation. I say don’t delay the inevitable. You have to grab the polish by the wand, take responsibility and push through. If you’re lucky, you’ll walk away with a great story, an invaluable lesson and the confidence that you can handle anything.</p>
<p><strong>What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>Hands down my biggest start-up mistake was signing on to work with inexperienced web developers. Through a friend, I found a couple who were starting to work on websites as a side business. They were enthusiastic, believed in my brand and most important, they were cheap. I thought I had hit a home run.</p>
<p>As we continued to work together, I realized that they were in way over their heads. Months behind schedule, thousands of dollars down the drain and with little to nothing to show for it, I had to find someone new to come in and basically start from scratch. From this experience I had two big takeaways:</p>
<p>First, prioritize what is most important to your brand and put your money there. As an online retailer my website is crucial to the well-being and success of my company. I should have allocated my money here but in trying to be savvy, I made the mistake of skimping where I shouldn’t have, and my business suffered.</p>
<p>Second, referrals are helpful when making a hire, but a positive reference shouldn’t be the only factor. Interview more than one person for a position to get different perspectives and to see what each person can bring to the table. You can even learn more about what you need from an interviewee. I was impulsive and excited to get my idea in motion when I should have taken the time to meet with more people and get a better understanding of the scope of work and the commitment (timeline and otherwise) that my web developers would bring to the table.</p>
<p><strong>What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>After two and a half years of running the business out of my New York City apartment, Pretty Please was growing to the point where I needed to take the next step and start working with a fulfillment center. Looking around my empty office after all the inventory had been picked up was such a surreal moment. I was nervous to lose the control, sad to see the first chapter of the business come to a close, but also thrilled to have a great team behind me and excited for all that was yet to come. It was a milestone. A surreal milestone.<br /><strong> <br />What do you look for when considering hiring someone?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>I look for smart, detail oriented, inquisitive problem solvers. I want to work with people who speak up, make suggestions and want to add real value. I find that people who ask thoughtful questions are usually the most engaged, excited and interested in the brand (not just a job), and that goes a long way with me.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?</strong></p>
<p><strong>SA: </strong>If you want to be an entrepreneur, surround yourself with other entrepreneurs. They have been in the trenches, and only there can you fully learn and understand what it takes to run your own business.</p>
<p>Having an awesome idea and a profitable business are two very different things, and any entrepreneur knows that. Your family and friends will be there to cheer you on, but building a network of like-minded, knowledgeable and experienced small business owners will be priceless. </p>
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</script>http://www.hercampus.com/career/how-she-got-there/how-she-got-there-sara-alter-founder-pretty-please-nail-polishMon, 19 Jan 2015 12:00:01 ESTHer Campus CareerLily Herman